prevention

noun

pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven(t)-shən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
: the act of preventing or hindering

Examples of prevention in a Sentence

Exercise and diet play a role in the prevention of heart disease. good crowd control is crucial to the prevention of riots
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Communities across Michigan — not just Detroit — were among several cities across the country that adopted the approach in response and used federal pandemic relief funds to invest in violence prevention. Andrea May Sahouri, Freep.com, 25 July 2025 Always Active These Cookies and SDKs are required for Service functionality, including security and fraud prevention, and to enable any purchasing capabilities. Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 24 July 2025 That means a renewed and urgent focus on prevention from our policymakers—and remember, prevention needs to target both young and old. Kevin Sabet, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025 Fiber supports gut health, blood sugar, and long-term disease prevention—but too much can cause discomfort. Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for prevention

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prevention was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Prevention.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prevention. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

prevention

noun
pre·​ven·​tion pri-ˈven-chən How to pronounce prevention (audio)
: the act or practice of preventing something
the prevention of fires

More from Merriam-Webster on prevention

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