Obs. Also 6–7 -gard. [ad. F. contregarder (13th c. in Littré): see COUNTER- 1.]
1. trans. To guard against, ward off (danger, evil).
1583. T. Stocker, Civ. Warres Lowe C., I. 28 a. To countergard and preuent all discorde, sedition, and ill will.
2. To guard (a person or thing) against danger or attack; to safeguard.
1594. T. B., La Primaud. Fr. Acad., II. 53. They are set before them to countergard and keepe them, both from ouer great heate, and from excessiue colde.
1594. Carew, Huarte’s Exam. Wits, xiii. (1616), 204. He alwayes studieth to offend with wiles, and such wit is requisit wherewith to countergard our selues.
1640. A. Harsnet, God’s Summ., 171. He counter-guards his heart with all diligence.
