deterrence

American  

[dih-tur-uhns, -tuhr-, -ter-] / dɪˈtɜr əns, -ˈtʌr-, -ˈtɛr- /

Sometimes deterrency

noun

1. the act of deterring, especially deterring a nuclear attack by the capacity or threat of retaliating.

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deterrence Cultural  

1. A military capability sufficiently strong to discourage any would-be aggressor from starting a war because of the fear of retaliation. (See balance of terror.)

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Etymology

Origin of deterrence

First recorded in 1860–65; deterr(ent) + -ence

Example Sentences

Speaking at the MSC, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was already holding "confidential talks with the French president about European nuclear deterrence".

From Barron's

France and the UK are the only two nuclear powers in Europe - but Germany and many other European nations have traditionally relied on the US nuclear umbrella within the Nato alliance for deterrence.

From BBC

What it does less well is grapple honestly with countries’ use of coercion, deterrence and escalation—the forces that now determine many economic outcomes.

From The Wall Street Journal

They were referred for prosecution, which is important for deterrence.

From The Wall Street Journal

Is this having the effect of reminding the base of the benefits of strong deterrence or the old saying, peace through strength?

From The Wall Street Journal