deterrence

noun

de·​ter·​rence di-ˈtər-ən(t)s How to pronounce deterrence (audio) -ˈter- How to pronounce deterrence (audio)
-ˈtə-rən(t)s, 
-ˈte-;
dē-
Synonyms of deterrence
: 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
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.
Each vessel will be able to carry 12 Trident II D5 missiles for nuclear deterrence, alongside torpedoes for anti-ship missions. — Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 31 July 2026 But Ben Taleblu warned that successful interceptions alone may not restore deterrence. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026 For decades, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines have served as the starting point for nearly every sentencing hearing, producing lengthy prison terms intended to promote consistency and deterrence. — Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026 This includes intelligence and surveillance assets as well as long-range bombers, air-to-air refueling, and, ultimately, NATO’s nuclear deterrence. — Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for deterrence

Word History

Etymology

see deter

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deterrence was in 1861

Rhymes for deterrence

See All Rhymes for deterrence

Browse Nearby Words

deterministic
deterrence
deterrent
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deterrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deterrence. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

deterrence

noun
de·​ter·​rence di-ˈtər-ən(t)s How to pronounce deterrence (audio) -ˈter- How to pronounce deterrence (audio)
: 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- How to pronounce deterrence (audio)
: the inhibition of criminal behavior by fear especially of punishment

More from Merriam-Webster on deterrence

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for deterrence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about deterrence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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