prevention

noun

pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven(t)-shən 

: the act of preventing or hindering

Synonyms of prevention

• avoidance
• prohibition

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

While hospitals continue investing in advanced diagnostic tools and antimicrobial materials, infection-prevention experts say the fundamentals still matter most. —Karina Nicholas, Boston Herald, 28 Nov. 2025

Whitson also notes that brain changes like amyloid and tau buildup can begin years before symptoms appear, underscoring the importance of early prevention. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Nov. 2025

Other prevention tips are more rudimentary, such as keeping cars parked behind residence gates or using a club device to lock the steering wheel. —Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 27 Nov. 2025

Together, these vitamins contribute to overall wellness and disease prevention. —Sarah Hudgens, Health, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing prevention

• an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
• prevention is better than cure

Rhymes for prevention

• attention
• contention
• convention
• declension
• detention
• dimension
• dissension
• distension
• extension
• intension
• invention
• laurentian

Kids Definition

prevention

noun

pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven-chən 

: the act or practice of preventing something

the prevention of fires