A current or flow that runs in the opposite direction to another current, often used literally for water or air and figuratively for opposing trends or forces.
From counter- (against) + current (flow). Current comes from Latin currens (flowing). The term emerged in maritime and scientific contexts to describe water flowing against the main current, and later extended metaphorically to any opposing force or trend.
Countercurrents in ocean water actually create some of the most biologically productive areas on Earth because they mix nutrients—so going against the flow sometimes creates unexpected abundance, which is why this word became popular for describing any successful opposition to dominant trends.
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