Definition
The theory that having enough nuclear weapons means nobody will attack you, which is either brilliant or absolutely terrifying. Strategy of preventing war through threat of nuclear retaliation.
Example Usage
Cold War tensions were managed through nuclear deterrence and the concept of mutually assured destruction.
Origin
Cold War military strategy term
Fun Fact
The strategy has technically never been tested, meaning we won't know if it works until it's too late to matter.
Source: Military Strategy and Nuclear Doctrine
Related Terms
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See “Nuclear Deterrence” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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