1. Something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress; SYN. deterrent, impediment, handicap.
2. Something that impedes or is burdensome; SYN. hitch, preventive, preventative, encumbrance, incumbrance, interference.
3. The act of hindering or obstructing or impeding; SYN. interference, interfering.

ETYM Cf. French prévention.
1. Control by preventing the occurrence of something.
2. The act of preventing; SYN. bar.

Something that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease; SYN. preventative, prophylactic.