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
Cite this Entry
“Deterrence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deterrence. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
