disincentive

noun

dis·​in·​cen·​tive ˌdis-in-ˈsen-tiv How to pronounce disincentive (audio)

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.
This creates artificial incentives and disincentives that seem random at best. Martin Shenkman, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025 The last thing Illinois should be doing right now is creating new disincentives to hiring. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2025 Furthermore, hard disincentives like prison do not defend civilization against the entropic impulses of human nature. Kent Russell, Harper's Magazine, 28 Feb. 2025 That includes new work requirements for some adults beginning in December 2026, more frequent eligibility checks and disincentives for states to cover unauthorized migrant children, among other provisions. Savannah Kuchar, USA Today, 2 June 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Disincentive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disincentive. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

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