pre·serv·a·tive

[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
3.
tending to preserve.

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

non·pre·serv·a·tive, adjective
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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00:10
Preservative is always a great word to know.
So is quincunx. Does it mean:
an arrangement of five objects, as trees, in a square or rectangle, one at each corner and one in the middle.
a chattering or flighty, light-headed person.
Collins
World English Dictionary
preservative (prɪˈzɜːvətɪv) [Click for IPA pronunciation guide]
 
n
1.  something that preserves or tends to preserve, esp a chemical added to foods to inhibit decomposition
 
adj
2.  tending or intended to preserve

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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American Heritage
Medical Dictionary

preservative pre·ser·va·tive (prĭ-zûr'və-tĭv)
n.
A substance added to food products or to organic solutions to prevent decomposition due to chemical change or bacterial action.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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Example sentences
Many of the samples fixed in celloidin also float in a liquid preservative that
  is probably formaldehyde or alcohol.
The volcano's intense heat proved to be a great preservative.
Salt not only enhances taste but also acts as a preservative and adds texture.
Alcohol is an excellent preservative, and this is a great way to store your
  cherries beyond their growing season.
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