preventive meaning and definition

PREVENTIVE noun

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: encumbrance, hinderance, hindrance, hitch, incumbrance, interference, preventative
3. an agent or device intended to prevent conception
   • synonyms: birth control device, contraceptive, contraceptive device, preventative, prophylactic device

PREVENTIVE adjective

Definition of preventive (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
   • antonym: permissive