deterrence

plural deterrences

1. countableuncountableThe act of deterring, or the state of being deterred.

   effective deterrence

   2 more examples

   The policy relies on nuclear deterrence.

   Strict penalties act as a deterrence against theft.

2. countableuncountableAn action taken by states or alliances of nations against equally powerful alliances to prevent hostile action.

   policy of deterrence

3. countableuncountableThe art of producing in one's enemy the fear of attacking.
   1. countablespecificallyuncountableNuclear deterrence: discouraging nuclear attack through the threat of nuclear retaliation.
4. countableuncountableThe action of discouraging an action or event by instilling doubt or fear of the penalty or punishment.