disincentive

noun

dis·​in·​cen·​tive ˌdis-in-ˈsen-tiv How to pronounce disincentive (audio)
Synonyms of disincentivenext
: deterrent

Examples of disincentive in a Sentence

We considered volunteering, but the complicated application process was a disincentive. The complicated application process was a disincentive to volunteering our time.
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.
Competitive tax and cost structure, and incentives to come as opposed to disincentives to leave. — Saleen Martin, USA Today, 24 Apr. 2026 Besides the basic issue of equity, Proposition 13 thus provides a huge disincentive to sell or redevelop your property. — Nolan Gray, Oc Register, 21 June 2026 Specifically, the court noted that existing disclosure laws and rules about earmarking donations already act as disincentives for donors hoping to use parties as a means to indirectly funnel money to candidates. — John J. Martin, The Conversation, 30 June 2026 Many people worry about how benefit eligibility can create disincentives for workers to take raises, promotions, or otherwise advance in low-wage careers due to steep drop-offs in benefits eligibility. — Rob Moore, Washington Post, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disincentive

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disincentive was in 1946

Rhymes for disincentive

See All Rhymes for disincentive

Browse Nearby Words

disincarnation
disincentive
disinclination
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disincentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disincentive. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on disincentive

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for disincentive

Nglish: Translation of disincentive for Spanish Speakers

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