Definitions

1. verb

to counteract or neutralize the effect of something

“The new law was enacted to countervail the negative impact of the economic crisis.”

2. noun

a counteracting or balancing force

“The government’s economic policies were seen as a countervail to the rising inflation rates.”

3. noun

a right or privilege granted as a counterbalance to another

“The nobility’s right to bear arms was considered a countervail to the power of the monarch.”

4. verb

to be or serve as a counterbalance or counteracting force

“The new tax was introduced to countervail the rising costs of living.”