Definition of deterrence
: the act or process of deterring: such asa : the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishmentb : the maintenance of military power for the purpose of discouraging attack nuclear deterrence
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Examples of deterrence in a Sentence
The author argues that deterrence is no longer the best way to prevent war.
Recent Examples of deterrence from the Web
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In another crucial signal, Trump refused to reaffirm the value of NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause, the linchpin of NATO's unity and deterrence since the alliance's foundation in 1949.
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Credible deterrence is all well and good — and necessary.
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Game theory has always had trouble accounting for players with no rational self-interest, and nuclear deterrence is no exception.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'deterrence'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of deterrence
see deter
First Known Use: 1861
DETERRENCE Defined for English Language Learners
deterrence
playDefinition of deterrence for English Language Learners
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: the act of making someone decide not to do something : the act of preventing a particular act or behavior from happening
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politics : the policy of developing a lot of military power so that other countries will not attack your country
Medical Dictionary
deterrence
Medical Definition of deterrence
: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment
Law Dictionary
deterrence
playLegal Definition of deterrence
: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment
Learn More about deterrence
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Britannica English: Translation of deterrence for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deterrence
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