deterrent Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress
    balk; handicap; baulk; check; impediment; hindrance; hinderance.
  2. adjective satellite tending to deter
    • the deterrent effects of high prices

WordNet

De*ter"rent adjective
Etymology
L. deterrens, p. pr. of deterrere. See Deter.
Definitions
  1. Serving to deter. "The deterrent principle." E. Davis.
De*ter"rent noun
Definitions
  1. That which deters or prevents.

Webster 1913