Pre*serv"a*tive , n.
That which preserves, or has the power of preserving; a presevative agent.
To wear tablets as preservatives against
the plague.
Bacon.
Pre*serv"a*tive (?), a.
[Cf. F. préservatif.]
Having the power or quality of preserving; tending to preserve, or to keep from injury, decay, etc.