Definition of 'preventive'

Noun

1. remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease; "the doctor recommended several preventatives"
      Synonyms: preventative prophylactic
2. any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome
      Synonyms: hindrance hinderance hitch preventative encumbrance incumbrance interference
3. an agent or device intended to prevent conception
      Synonyms: contraceptive preventative contraceptive device prophylactic device birth control device

Adjective

1. preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease; "preventive medicine"; "vaccines are prophylactic"; "a prophylactic drug"
      Synonyms: preventative prophylactic
2. tending to prevent or hinder
      Synonyms: preventative
      Antonyms: permissive
3. tending to ward off; "the swastika...a very ancient prophylactic symbol occurring among all peoples"- Victor Schultze
      Synonyms: cautionary prophylactic

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