fixative

Definition of Fixative in English :

1. fixative

a compound (such as ethanol or formaldehyde) that fixes tissues and cells for microscopic study

2. fixative

a varnish dissolved in alcohol and sprayed over pictures to prevent smudging

WordNet Lexical Database for English. Princeton University. 2010.

Fixative

adjective

1.

serving or tending to fix

noun

2.

a fluid usually consisting of a transparent resin, such as shellac, dissolved in alcohol and sprayed over drawings to prevent smudging

3. cytology

a fluid, such as formaldehyde or ethanol, that fixes tissues and cells for microscopic study

4.

a substance added to a liquid, such as a perfume, to make it less volatile

adjective

1.

that is able or tends to make permanent, prevent fading, etc.

noun

2.

a substance that makes something permanent, prevents fading, etc., as a mordant or a preservative used in microscopy

n.

Something that fixes, protects, or preserves, especially:

a. A liquid preservative applied to artwork, such as watercolor paintings or charcoal drawings.

b. A solution used to preserve and harden fresh tissue for microscopic examination.

c. A liquid mixed with perfume to prevent rapid evaporation.