Word
preservative
Phoneticspreser·va·tive
US/pɹiˈzɝvətɪv/
UK/pɹɪsˈɜːvətˌɪv/
Definition
n. a substance added to food or medicine to stop it from going bad or spoiling. It helps things stay fresh for a longer time.
n. a substance added to food, medicine, or other perishable materials to prevent spoilage or decay. It inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Examples
“Salt is a natural preservative that keeps meat fresh.”
“Many processed snacks contain chemical preservatives to ensure they remain safe to eat for several months on the shelf.”
“While synthetic preservatives offer significant shelf-life benefits, many consumers now prefer products that rely on natural alternatives like rosemary extract or vinegar to maintain freshness.”
Examples
simple
“Salt is a natural preservative that keeps meat fresh.”
contextual
“Many processed snacks contain chemical preservatives to ensure they remain safe to eat for several months on the shelf.”
complex
“While synthetic preservatives offer significant shelf-life benefits, many consumers now prefer products that rely on natural alternatives like rosemary extract or vinegar to maintain freshness.”
Real-World Examples
“Preservatives are added to foods for several reasons, including preventing the growth of bacteria and mold, slowing spoilage, and helping products maintain their color, flavor, or freshness for longer.” Etymology
From Old French preservatif, from Medieval Latin praeservativus.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
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englishreference.com/q/preservative