<p><strong>Adjective</strong></p><ul><li>serving or tending to deter.</li></ul><p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>something that prevents, checks, or suppresses: a deterrent to crime.</li><li>something that repels: Our lemongrass-based bug deterrent is natural, safe, and effective.</li><li>Synonyms: hindrance, check, curb, restraint.</li><li>military strength or an ability to defend a country or retaliate strongly enough to deter an enemy from attacking.</li></ul>