See Also: deter(dictionary)
deter(dictionary)
Deter(law)

deter (iou)



deter verb trans. Infl. -rr-. M16.
[Latin deterrere, from de- DE- 1 + terrere frighten.]
Restrain or discourage (from acting or proceeding) by fear, doubt, dislike of effort or trouble, or consideration of consequences. M16.
J. L. Waten I wanted to join in the laughter but Father's face deterred me. S. Naipaul No threat would deter them from producing it and delivering it free of charge.
Inhibit, prevent. M20.
Scientific American This tactic could deter torpedo attack.
determent noun the action or fact of deterring; a deterring circumstance: M17.
deterrable adjective M20.