definition of
preventative

[1] #1 preventative n. [preventive, prophylactic] remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease; "the doctor recommended several preventatives". wn

[2] #2 preventative n. [hindrance, hinderance, hitch, preventive, encumbrance, incumbrance, interference] any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome. wn

[3] #3 preventative s. [preventive, prophylactic] preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease; "preventive medicine"; "vaccines are prophylactic"; "a prophylactic drug". wn

[4] #4 preventative n. [contraceptive, preventive, contraceptive device, prophylactic device, birth control device] an agent or device intended to prevent conception. wn