fixative

/ˈfɪksətɪv/
adjective
  1. Serving to fix or make stable; used to describe something that holds or preserves.
    • The fixative spray helped keep the chalk drawing from rubbing off.
    • The museum used a fixative solution to stabilize the ancient fabric.
    • Some fixative agents in hair products help hold a style in place.
noun
  1. A substance used to preserve or hold something in place, such as a spray that protects artwork or a liquid that keeps a scent in perfume.
    • The perfumer added a fixative to make the floral scent last longer on the skin.
    • She sprayed a fixative over her charcoal drawing to prevent smudging.
    • Artists often use a fixative to protect pastel work from dust and damage.
  2. A substance used in photography to make an image permanent after development.
    • Without fixative, the photo would continue to darken when exposed to light.
    • The darkroom technician carefully applied fixative to the photographic print.
    • After developing the film, he dipped it in fixative to stop the chemical reaction.
What does "fixative" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean