deterrence

Noun

1. The act of deterring, or the state of being deterred.
   • The policy relies on nuclear deterrence.
   • Strict penalties act as a deterrence against theft.
   • effective deterrence
2. An action taken by states or alliances of nations against equally powerful alliances to prevent hostile action.
   • policy of deterrence
3. The art of producing in one's enemy the fear of attacking.

   1. (specifically) Nuclear deterrence: discouraging nuclear attack through the threat of nuclear retaliation.

4. The action of discouraging an action or event by instilling doubt or fear of the penalty or punishment.