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

Strategically speaking, this new system will align with Australia’s growing focus on maritime security and deterrence. —Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2025

The goal of the pact is to strengthen military capabilities in the Pacific, aiming to promote deterrence and stability in a region that has seen a major buildup by China. —Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2025

Johnson was selected for deterrence. —David Smiley, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025

The trial period will measure the vehicle's impact on response times, deterrence, officer safety and public confidence. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2025

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