deterrence
|de-ter-rence|
C1
🇺🇸
/dɪˈtɜːrəns/
🇬🇧
/dɪˈtɛrəns/
prevention through fear
Etymology
Etymology Information
'deterrence' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deterrentia,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'terrere' meant 'to frighten.'
Historical Evolution
'deterrentia' transformed into the French word 'déterrence,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deterrence' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to frighten away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'preventing an action through fear of consequences.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of preventing or discouraging an action, especially through fear of consequences.
The military's presence served as a deterrence against potential threats.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40