Deter

Pronunciation: /dɪˈtər/

Definitions of deter

verb to discourage or prevent someone from doing something

Example Sentences

A1 The loud noise may deter the cat from entering the room.

A2 Putting up a fence can deter unwanted visitors from entering your property.

B1 The security guard's presence is meant to deter any potential thieves.

B2 The warning signs are there to deter people from swimming in dangerous waters.

C1 The high level of security at the event is designed to deter any potential security threats.

C2 The strict laws in place are meant to deter people from committing crimes.

Examples of deter in a Sentence

formal The presence of security cameras can deter potential criminals from committing theft.

informal Putting up a 'Beware of Dog' sign can deter unwanted visitors from approaching your house.

slang Wearing a mask can deter people from recognizing you in public.

figurative Her confident demeanor can deter anyone from questioning her authority.

Grammatical Forms of deter

• past tense: deterred
• plural: deters
• comparative: more deter
• superlative: most deter
• present tense: deter
• future tense: will deter
• perfect tense: have deterred
• continuous tense: is deterring
• singular: deter
• positive degree: deter
• infinitive: to deter
• gerund: deterring
• participle: deterred

Origin and Evolution of deter

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'deter' originated from the Latin word 'deterre', which means 'to frighten away'.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'deter' has evolved to encompass not just the act of frightening away, but also the act of preventing or discouraging someone from doing something.