DETERRENT Synonyms: 97 Similar and Opposite Words

deterrent 1 of 2

noun

Definition of deterrent

as in obstacle

something that makes movement or progress difficult the homeowner put up a fence around his garden as a deterrent for animals

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deterrent

2 of 2

adjective

as in preventive

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deterrent

Noun

But armed officers dressed in camouflage alongside military vehicles have apparently not acted as enough of a deterrent to petty criminals. — Antonia Mortensen, CNN Money, 2 Sep. 2026 Birds get used to most deterrents after a time and learn to ignore them. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 2 Sep. 2026

Adjective

One thing to keep in mind is that the deterrent effect of coffee grounds may be more temporary than other methods. — Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 7 Mar. 2026 This team has neither a point-of-attack defense on the perimeter nor a true deterrent interior presence. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 27 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deterrent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deterrent

Noun

The report released by the NBA’s investigators at the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz portrays Ballmer and the team as treating the league’s salary cap rules not as strict mandates, but as obstacles to be evaded, like traffic cones.

— Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026
Around 32% of previous cohorts are now hiring or championing others for more senior roles, with 68% of alums citing access to decision makers is the single biggest obstacle to career progression.

— Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 10 Sep. 2026

Definition of obstacle

Adjective

Garcia said the initiative is particularly important for residents facing barriers such as cost, lack of insurance, language differences or limited access to preventive health education.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 11 Sep. 2026
Preparing is more valuable than reacting, and that means the board should not only review preventive controls, but also require, oversee and update contingency plans to manage a potential crisis, ensuring operational continuity.

— Susana Sierra, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2026

Definition of preventive

Noun

Earlier models relied on broad hydrological assumptions and missed practical engineering hurdles.

— Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 6 Sep. 2026
At that moment Benson was tempted to use his vertical leap of more than 40 inches to simply glide over him like going over hurdles in a 110-meter race.

— Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026

Definition of hurdle

Noun

Rice lipids and jojoba oil seal in moisture and replenish the skin barrier, while 2% ectoin soothes redness and protects against water loss.

— Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026
The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund was created to support semiconductor research and development investments, reduce barriers to innovation, and address growing global competition in the semiconductor industry.

— Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of barrier

Noun

Toliaferro is charged with malice murder, criminal trespass and obstruction in the death of 30-year-old Kenyon Jeffries, according to the district attorney's office.

— Rashad Williams, CBS News, 9 Sep. 2026
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Fred Guy Monaco of North Little Rock, was arrested on charges of first degree forgery, financial fraud, nonfinancial fraud and obstruction of government operations.

— Dale Ellis, Arkansas Online, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of obstruction

Noun

Just not being an embarrassment will go a long way for Giants fans.

— Adam Coleman, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
Meanwhile, a major reboot out of Canton as Hall of Fame reduces its voting body from 50 to 25 in wake of last year’s embarrassment when all-time Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Belichick stunningly did not get in on first ballot.

— Greg Cote September 6, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2026

Definition of embarrassment

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deterrences

deterrent

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Style

“Deterrent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deterrent. Accessed 13 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of deterrent

noun

adjective

Example Sentences

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