preservative preservative /prɪˈzɜː.və.tɪv/ aep /-ˈzɝː.və.t̬ɪv/ noun
1 F0 [C or U] a substance used to prevent decay in wood: » a timber/wood preservative» The fence has been treated with preservative.Thesaurus+: ↑Carpentry and joinery2 F0 [C] a chemical used to stop food from decaying: » This bread is completely free from artificial preservatives.» No added preservatives.» natural preservativesThesaurus+: ↑Additives in food and drinks |