Definitions

deter

[dih-tur] / dɪˈtɜr /

VERB

check, inhibit from action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert block dampen daunt discourage dissuade forestall frighten hinder impede intimidate obstruct preclude prevent prohibit restrain scare stop

STRONG

caution chill cool damp debar divert forfend obviate warn

WEAK

act like a wet blanket disadvise put a damper on put off rule out shut out stave off talk out of throw cold water on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist encourage facilitate forward hearten help incite inspirit permit promote push support

STRONG

heat warm

WEAK

instigate persuade put on to stimulate turn on urge

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He said he hoped the 31 years given to McCullagh would deter other men from carrying out violence against women and girls across Northern Ireland.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

“Oman stands ready to work with the United States and all responsible partners to promote stability, deter disruption, and safeguard our shared strategic interests,” the Information Minister Abdulla Al-Harrasi said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

The SDR outlined a shift towards "warfighting readiness" to deter threats and pledged billions in extra spending for extra ammunition, next-generation fast jets, drones, and new attack submarines.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

From a tactical standpoint, the fort is unlikely to deter Hezbollah’s new crop of attack drones, which rely on fiber-optic cables and are impervious to jamming.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

This move would not deter a single coyote, but I don’t have the heart to knock him down when he is so obviously impressed with himself.

From "Wayward Creatures" by Dayna Lorentz

Vocabulary lists containing deter

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