Deter, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Deterred; p. pr. & vb. n. Deterring.]
Etymology: [L. deterrere; de + terrere to frighten, terrify. See Terror.]
To prevent by fear; hence, to hinder or prevent from action by fear of consequences, or difficulty, risk, etc. Addison. Potent enemies tempt and deter us from our duty. Tillotson. My own face deters me from my glass. Prior.