verb

deter

to deter, to discourage

High prices are deterring people from buying houses.

High prices are deterring people from buying houses.

The security cameras are meant to deter criminals.

The security cameras are meant to deter criminals.

((sb.)) ((from -ing)) to discourage (sb.) from doing (sth.) The alarm should deter thieves from breaking in.

Synonyms: discourage, prevent, dissuade; Antonyms: encourage, persuade

From Latin 'deterrere' (to frighten from), from 'de-' (from) + 'terrere' (to frighten).

Connect it to 'terror'. Something that causes terror can deter you from acting.

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