Definition of preservative
(Entry 1 of 2)
: having the power of preserving
preservative
nounDefinition of preservative (Entry 2 of 2)
: something that preserves or has the power of preserving
specifically
: an additive used to protect against decay, discoloration, or spoilage
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for preservative
The first known use of preservative was in the 14th century
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