pre·ven·tion (prĭ-vĕn′shən) n. The act of preventing something: the prevention of illness. prevention (prɪˈvɛnʃən) n 1. the act of preventing 2. a hindrance, obstacle, or impediment pre•ven•tion (prɪˈvɛn ʃən) n. 1. the act of preventing; effectual hindrance. 2. something that prevents; preventive. [1520–30;

