Relating to or supporting efforts to oppose and reverse a revolution and return to the previous political system.
From counterrevolution + -ary (relating to). The -ary suffix comes from Latin -arius. This term became common in the 20th century, especially during communist regimes where opposing the revolution meant execution.
Under Stalin and Mao, being labeled 'counterrevolutionary' was one of the most dangerous accusations—it often meant a death sentence, which shows how powerful this word became as a political weapon.
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