preservative
UK: prɪˈzɜːvətɪv | US: prɪˈzɜːrvətɪv
n. a substance used to prevent decay, spoilage, or undesired chemical changes (e.g., in food or wood).
adj. having the quality of preserving or protecting something from harm.
preservative = preserve<to protect> + ative<adjective suffix>
- preserve (from Latin praeservare: prae- "before" + servare "to keep, guard")
- ative (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives indicating a tendency or function)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin praeservare, combining prae- (ahead) and servare (to guard). It entered Middle English via Old French preserver, originally meaning "to keep safe from harm." The suffix -ative (from Latin -ativus) was added to form the noun/adjective, reflecting its role in "actively protecting" materials from decay. The modern sense emerged in the 19th century with industrial preservatives.
Salt acts as a natural preservative in cured meats.
The artist used a chemical preservative to protect the painting from humidity.
Many processed foods contain artificial preservatives.
Honey’s preservative properties have been valued since ancient times.
Critics argue that synthetic preservatives may pose health risks.