De·ter v. t. [imp. & p. p. Deterred p. pr. & vb. n. Deterring.]  To prevent by fear; hence, to hinder or prevent from action by fear of consequences, or difficulty, risk, etc.
    Potent enemies tempt and deter us from our duty.   --Tillotson.
    My own face deters me from my glass.   --Prior.

 ◄ ►


 deter
      v 1: try to prevent; show opposition to; "We should discourage
           this practice among our youth" [syn: discourage]
      2: turn away from by persuasion; "Negative campaigning will
         only dissuade people" [syn: dissuade] [ant: persuade]
      [also: deterring, deterred]


 deterring
      See deter