deterrence

noun

de·​ter·​rence di-ˈtər-ən(t)s  -ˈter- 

-ˈtə-rən(t)s,

-ˈte-;

dē-

: the act or process of deterring: such as

a

: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment

b

: the maintenance of military power for the purpose of discouraging attack

nuclear deterrence

Examples of deterrence in a Sentence

The author argues that deterrence is no longer the best way to prevent war.

Recent Examples on the Web

China’s current military-technical initiatives, however, are still not intended for nuclear warfighting, but for bolstering deterrence. —Ashley J. Tellis, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2024

But criminal fines on companies — and on some individuals — have reached stratospheric heights, and that’s partly because the prospect of requital and deterrence seemed to require it. —Kwame Anthony Appiah, New York Times, 12 June 2024

Biden says his response has been part of a broader deterrence strategy. —Massimo Calabresi / Washington, TIME, 4 June 2024

Critics say the problem is too much friend making and not enough deterrence. —Massimo Calabresi / Washington, TIME, 4 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

see deter

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

deterrence

noun

de·​ter·​rence di-ˈtər-ən(t)s  -ˈter- 

: the act, process, or capability of deterring

Medical Definition

deterrence

noun

de·​ter·​rence

di-ˈtər-ən(t)s, -ˈter-; -ˈtə-rən(t)s; dē-

: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment

Legal Definition

deterrence

noun

de·​ter·​rence di-ˈtər-əns, -ˈter- 

: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment