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

His lack of rim deterrence has been roundly panned. —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 12 June 2026

Iran’s use of infrastructure threats may strengthen short-term deterrence but increase the long-term risk of escalation. —Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

Britain has publicly committed itself to strengthening NATO's deterrence posture and expanding its role in European security. —Elena Giuliano, CBS News, 11 June 2026

These are key parts of the submarine and show that work on the Navy’s top-priority strategic deterrence program is making steady progress. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 11 June 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