countermyth

noun

coun·​ter·​myth ˈkau̇n-tər-ˌmith 

variants or counter-myth

plural countermyths or counter-myths

: a myth that challenges or contradicts another myth

From an anthropological perspective, myths can be seen as imagined narratives that address existential human issues and have behavioral consequences. Old myths are frequently challenged by countermyths in cultures, families, institutions, and individuals.

—Stanley Krippner

The making of a new myth—in this case, a feminist counter-myth that challenges the dominance of patriarchal values …

—Henry Jenkins

Word History

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above