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

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is now eager to re-establish deterrence and is close to a decision to join the attacks, the people said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

When asked if this would hinder Seoul's deterrence strategy, he responded: "I can say with certainty that it would not."

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

"We are needed when it comes to increasing the defence capabilities of Germany and Europe and creating an effective deterrence."

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

Investors will be looking for proof that Rheinmetall can maintain record margins while delivering the equipment required for European deterrence, he adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Thus, instead of victory in the traditional sense, America and Russia sought deterrence as their strategic goal.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau