prevention

noun

pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven(t)-shən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
Synonyms of prevention
: the act of preventing or hindering

Synonyms of prevention

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Examples of prevention in a Sentence

Exercise and diet play a role in the prevention of heart disease. good crowd control is crucial to the prevention of riots
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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.
The rest will go toward awareness and prevention, screening services and other costs over the next five years. — CBS News, 7 Aug. 2026 Food benefits, access to mental health care, lead poisoning prevention. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026 As California continues directing billions toward homelessness, domestic violence prevention, and other social services, scrutiny is increasingly shifting beyond program outcomes alone. — Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 6 Aug. 2026 Search and rescue efforts included nearby residents, emergency services, healthcare workers, security personnel and an expert team from the local disaster prevention office, per the BBC. — Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prevention

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prevention was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing prevention

Rhymes for prevention

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Browse Nearby Words

preventingly
prevention
preventional
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Cite this Entry

“Prevention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prevention. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

prevention

noun
pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven-chən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
: the act or practice of preventing something
the prevention of fires

More from Merriam-Webster on prevention

Nglish: Translation of prevention for Spanish Speakers

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