fixative

/ˈfɪksədɪv/
IPA guide

Definitions of fixative
  1. noun
    a compound (such as ethanol or formaldehyde) that fixes tissues and cells for microscopic study
    see moresee less
    type of:
    fixer, fixing agent
    a chemical compound that sets or fixes something (as a dye or a photographic image)
  2. noun
    a varnish dissolved in alcohol and sprayed over pictures to prevent smudging
    see moresee less
    type of:
    varnish
    a coating that provides a hard, lustrous, transparent finish to a surface
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘fixative'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family