Abstract The astounding number of anti-phage defenses encoded by bacteria is countered by an elaborate set of phage counter-defenses. though their evolutionary origins are often unknown. Here. we report the discovery of an orphan antitoxin counter-defense element in T4-like phages that can overcome the bacterial toxin-antitoxin phage defense system. https://chefesquipmenters.shop/product-category/spindle-mixer-parts-and-accessories/