prevention

noun

pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven(t)-shən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
: the act of preventing or hindering

Examples of prevention in a Sentence

Exercise and diet play a role in the prevention of heart disease. good crowd control is crucial to the prevention of riots
Recent Examples on the Web The reinstatement of the ban caused backlash from some community members, who say masks are needed for illness prevention and who worry enforcement of the ban could lead to racial profiling. Eleanor McCrary, The Courier-Journal, 29 Oct. 2024 Advance Peace will join other Milwaukee County violence prevention programs like Credible Messengers. David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2024 Research shows that apples contain various antioxidants and other nutrients that may benefit heart health, weight management, diabetes prevention, digestive health, and more. Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024 The growing role of AI in fraud attacks has prompted some businesses to turn the tables on hackers and start leveraging AI precisely to improve fraud prevention and cybersecurity measures. Christophe Van De Weyer, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for prevention 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prevention.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prevention was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near prevention

Cite this Entry

“Prevention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prevention. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

prevention

noun
pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven-chən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
: the act or practice of preventing something
the prevention of fires

More from Merriam-Webster on prevention

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