deterrent

[ dih-tur-uhnt, -tuhr-, -ter- ]

adjective

1. serving or tending to deter.

noun

1. something that prevents, checks, or suppresses:

   a deterrent to crime.

2. something that repels:

   Our lemongrass-based bug deterrent is natural, safe, and effective.

   Synonyms: hindrance, check, curb, restraint

3. military strength or an ability to defend a country or retaliate strongly enough to deter an enemy from attacking.

deterrent

/ dɪˈtɛrənt /

noun

1. something that deters
2. a weapon or combination of weapons, esp nuclear, held by one state, etc, to deter attack by another

adjective

1. tending or used to deter; restraining

Derived Forms

• deˈterrence, noun

Other Words From

• de·terrent·ly adverb
• nonde·terrent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deterrent¹

First recorded in 1820–30; from Latin dēterrent- (stem of dēterrēns ), present participle of dēterrēre; deter, -ent

Word History and Origins

Origin of deterrent¹

C19: from Latin dēterrēns hindering; see deter

Example Sentences

Dame Angela attacked the Conservatives' record on asylum, particularly their claim that their Rwanda scheme was a deterrent.

From BBC

The Conservatives have criticised the government's approach, arguing there needs to be a deterrent to stop migrants crossing the Channel.

From BBC

Trump has defended the policy of separating immigrant children from their parents, calling it an effective deterrent to immigration.

From Los Angeles Times

US President-elect Donald Trump has doubled down on his campaign promise of the mass deportation of illegal immigrants, saying the cost of doing so will not be a deterrent.

From BBC

But the reality is Nato leaders will be seriously worried about what his victory means for the alliance’s future and how its deterrent effect is perceived by hostile leaders.

From BBC

Related Words

• disincentive
• hindrance
• obstacle