Dictionary

1preservative

adjective pre·ser·va·tive \pri-ˈzər-və-tiv\

Definition of PRESERVATIVE

:  having the power of preserving
ADVERTISEMENT

First Known Use of PRESERVATIVE

14th century

Rhymes with PRESERVATIVE

2preservative

noun

: a chemical that is added to food to keep it fresh longer

: a substance that is used on wood to prevent it from decaying

Full Definition of PRESERVATIVE

:  something that preserves or has the power of preserving; specifically :  an additive used to protect against decay, discoloration, or spoilage

First Known Use of PRESERVATIVE

15th century

Rhymes with PRESERVATIVE

PRESERVATIVE Defined for Kids

preservative

noun pre·ser·va·tive \pri-ˈzər-vət-iv\

Definition of PRESERVATIVE for Kids

:  a substance added to food to keep it from spoiling
Medical Dictionary

preservative

noun pre·ser·va·tive \pri-ˈzər-vət-iv\

Medical Definition of PRESERVATIVE

:  something that preserves or has the power of preserving; specifically :  an additive used to protect against decay, discoloration, or spoilage <a food preservative>

Browse

3 ENTRIES FOUND:
Next Word in the Dictionary: preservative mediumPrevious Word in the Dictionary: preservationistAll Words Near: preservative
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears