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Fixative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fixative

[ˈfɪksətɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

used in art or cosmetics

A substance used to set or stabilize something, such as a spray used to preserve drawings or a substance used in cosmetics to make makeup last longer.

Synonyms

preservative, sealant, spray.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fixative

A chemical substance used in biology to preserve the structure of tissues or cells for examination under a microscope.

  • The lab technician used a fixative to preserve the tissue sample.
  • They added a fixative to the cells before staining them for the microscope study.
sealant

A substance used to block the passage of fluids through the surface or joints or openings in materials, typically used in construction or dentistry.

  • They applied sealant around the windows to prevent leaks.
  • The dentist applied a sealant to the child's teeth to protect them from cavities.
preservative

A chemical added to food, wood, and other materials to prevent decay and spoilage.

  • This jam contains no artificial preservatives.
  • Wood treated with preservative lasts much longer outdoors.
spray

A liquid in the form of tiny drops propelled through the air, often used in cosmetics, gardening, and cleaning products.

  • She used hair spray to keep her hairstyle in place.
  • The gardener used a bug spray to eliminate pests from the plants.

Examples of usage

  • She sprayed a fixative over her charcoal drawing to prevent smudging.
  • The fixative in the hairspray helps keep your hairstyle in place all day.
Context #2 | Noun

used in psychology

A person or thing that makes a lasting impression on someone.

Synonyms

impact, impression, influence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fixative

Used when talking about a substance that is used to set or preserve something, especially in fields like art and chemistry.

  • The artist used a fixative to preserve the drawing.
  • The laboratory technician applied a fixative to the biological samples.
impact

Best used when referring to a strong effect or striking force, often related to physical or metaphorical scenarios.

  • The car accident had a severe impact on traffic.
  • Her speech had a profound impact on the audience.
impression

Used to describe an idea, feeling, or opinion about something or someone, often formed without full knowledge. Can also mean a mark or imprint.

  • His first impression of the city was very positive.
  • She left an excellent impression during the job interview.
influence

Describes the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, generally in a more subtle or less direct way.

  • Her mother had a significant influence on her musical taste.
  • The teacher's influence on his students was evident in their improved grades.

Examples of usage

  • The traumatic experience left a fixative in her memory.
  • The teacher was a fixative in his development as a student.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art Techniques

  • Different types of fixatives exist, such as workable and final fixatives, each serving a unique purpose.
  • Some fixatives are made from acrylic resins, while others use shellac or natural substances like gum arabic.

Science

  • A fixative not only protects artworks but can also prevent harmful reactions with light or air, significantly extending their lifespan.
  • In biology, fixatives are chemical substances used to preserve specimens for microscopic examination, showcasing the versatility of fixatives.

Pop Culture

  • Artists like Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock utilized fixatives to ensure their avant-garde works maintained their intended aesthetic.
  • In movies, you may see characters using fixatives during craft scenes to showcase artistic talents, reflecting the importance of preserving art.

Psychology

  • The psychological notion of 'fixation' can relate metaphorically to the idea of 'fixatives' preserving ideas or emotions in art.
  • Art therapy often employs fixatives to ensure that emotions expressed through art are kept intact for future reflection or interpretation.

Origin of 'fixative'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'fixare,' meaning to make something stable or firm.
  • In the late 1800s, artists began to use the word to refer to sprays that continued to 'fix' their artwork after completion.

The word 'fixative' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'fixus' meaning 'fixed' or 'set'. Originally used in the context of art to refer to a substance that sets or stabilizes drawings, the term later expanded to include a broader sense of something that makes a lasting impression or impact. Today, 'fixative' is commonly used in both artistic and psychological contexts to describe substances or entities that have a stabilizing or enduring effect.

See also: fix, fixable, fixate, fixated, fixatedly, fixating, fixation, fixations, fixed, fixer, fixes, fixing, fixity, fixture, transfix, unfixable, unfixed.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,836, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.