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

Ballistic-missile submarines are built primarily for nuclear deterrence, while attack submarines hunt enemy vessels, gather intelligence, support special forces, and strike targets on land. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 11 July 2026

This includes intelligence and surveillance assets as well as long-range bombers, air-to-air refueling, and, ultimately, NATO’s nuclear deterrence. — Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 8 July 2026

The doctrine calls for the use of rapid and disproportionate force in order to establish deterrence, place pressure on decision-makers, and minimize the period of combat. — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 July 2026

Allied participation should likewise be expanded so that deterrence is shared rather than carried by Washington alone for the benefit of freeloaders who consume Middle Eastern hydrocarbons and fertilizers. — Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

see deter

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for deterrence

• concurrence
• incurrence
• occurrence
• recurrence
• transference
• coinsurance
• countertransference

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