Pronunciation: /fɪkˈseɪtɪv/

Definitions of fixative

noun a substance used to preserve or stabilize something, especially a solution applied to a specimen for microscopy

Example Sentences

A1 I use fixative to keep my drawings from smudging.

A2 The artist sprayed fixative on the charcoal drawing to preserve it.

B1 Before framing the artwork, it is important to apply fixative to protect it.

B2 The fixative used by conservators is specially formulated to prevent deterioration of the painting.

C1 The museum curator applied fixative to the delicate ancient manuscript to ensure its long-term preservation.

C2 The chemical composition of the fixative used in art restoration is carefully researched to ensure its effectiveness.

Examples of fixative in a Sentence

formal The artist sprayed a fixative over the charcoal drawing to prevent smudging.

informal Make sure you use a fixative on your sketch so it doesn't get ruined.

slang I always spray some fixative on my artwork to keep it looking fresh.

figurative She used his words as a fixative to hold onto her fading memories.

Grammatical Forms of fixative

plural

fixatives

comparative

more fixative

superlative

most fixative

present tense

fixates

future tense

will fixate

perfect tense

has fixated

continuous tense

is fixating

singular

fixative

positive degree

fixative

infinitive

to fixate

gerund

fixating

participle

fixated

Origin and Evolution of fixative

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'fixative' originated from the Latin word 'fixativus' which is derived from the verb 'fixare' meaning 'to fix or fasten'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 17th century to refer to a substance used to fix colors or scents, the meaning of 'fixative' has evolved to also include substances used to preserve or stabilize materials in various fields such as art, chemistry, and biology.