1. substances used to preserve, stabilize, or set something in place
Usage: plural form of fixative
2. chemicals used in biology and medicine to preserve tissue samples for examination
Usage: medical; scientific
3. substances used in art to prevent smudging or fading of drawings, paintings, or photographs
Usage: art; photography

Examples

• The laboratory ordered new fixatives for preserving the tissue samples.
• Artists use fixatives to protect their charcoal drawings from smudging.
• The photographer applied fixatives to ensure the prints would last for decades.
• Different fixatives are required for various types of biological specimens.
• She sprayed fixatives over her pastel artwork before framing it.
• The museum conservators tested several fixatives before treating the ancient manuscript.