preservative

[ pri-zur-vuh-tiv ]

noun

1. something that preserves or tends to preserve.
2. a chemical substance used to preserve foods or other organic materials from decomposition or fermentation.

adjective

1. tending to preserve.

preservative

/ prɪˈzɜːvətɪv /

noun

1. something that preserves or tends to preserve, esp a chemical added to foods to inhibit decomposition

adjective

1. tending or intended to preserve

Other Words From

• nonpre·serva·tive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of preservative¹

1350–1400; Middle English (adj. and noun) < Middle French preservatif (adj.) < Medieval Latin praeservātīvus. See preserve, -ative

Example Sentences

He questioned the safety of thimerosal, a common vaccine preservative, advancing the debunked claim it could lead to autism.

From Science Magazine

Weldon is best known for pushing the thoroughly discredited theory that thimerosal, a preservative compound in some vaccines, causes autism.

From Salon

In Canada, Kellogg's Froot Loops are now made with natural fruit juice concentrates, but cereals in the U.S. still contain chemical additives and preservatives.

From Salon

The only type of scallops I avoid are “wet” scallops, which means they were frozen in a liquid solution with a preservative after harvest.

From Salon

At that time, soy sauce without chemical preservatives was very rare, and my father was able to fill this gap in the market.

From Salon

Related Words

• vinegar