fixative

noun

fix·​a·​tive ˈfik-sə-tiv How to pronounce fixative (audio)
: something that fixes or sets: such as
a
: a substance added to a perfume especially to prevent too rapid evaporation
b
: a substance used to fix living tissue
c
: a varnish used especially for the protection of drawings (as in pastel or charcoal)
fixative adjective

Examples of fixative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Indigo dye is also difficult to set completely; most common fixatives don’t work well on indigo dyes. — Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2024 Most of today’s dyes and fixatives are chemically synthesized from petroleum, then dumped into waterways. — John Cumbers, Forbes, 6 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

from fixative, adjective, "serving to fix," borrowed from New Latin fīxātīvus, from Medieval Latin fīxātus, past participle of fīxāre "to reduce a volatile substance (in alchemy)" (in New Latin, "to fix") + Latin -īvus -ive — more at fixation

First Known Use

circa 1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fixative was circa 1859

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Fixative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fixative. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

fixative

noun
fix·​a·​tive ˈfik-sət-iv How to pronounce fixative (audio)
: something that fixes or sets

Medical Definition

fixative

noun
fix·​a·​tive ˈfik-sət-iv How to pronounce fixative (audio)
: a substance used to fix living tissue

More from Merriam-Webster on fixative

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fixative

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