noun The act of deterring, or the state of being deterred.
The policy relies on nuclear deterrence.
noun An action taken by states or alliances of nations against equally powerful alliances to prevent hostile action.
policy of deterrence
noun The art of producing in one's enemy the fear of attacking. Nuclear deterrence: discouraging nuclear attack through the threat of nuclear retaliation.
noun Nuclear deterrence: discouraging nuclear attack through the threat of nuclear retaliation.
noun The action of discouraging an action or event by instilling doubt or fear of the penalty or punishment.