The act of stopping someone from doing something by making them afraid of the consequences, or the threat itself that prevents action.
From Latin 'deterrere' (to frighten away), combining 'de-' (away) and 'terrere' (to frighten). Entered English in the 1600s, and gained special importance during the Cold War to describe nuclear strategy.
During the Cold War, nations relied on 'nuclear deterrence'—the idea that having weapons so destructive neither side would dare attack. It's a terrifying strategy that actually may have prevented war!
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