Alterative
/ˈɔl.tɚˌaɪ.tɪv/ adj, noun
adj, noun ·Uncommon ·Advanced level
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A medicine or treatment which works by changing processes within the body, rather than by evacuating something etc. historical
"Amongst this number of cordials and alteratives I do not find a more present remedy than a cup of wine or strong drink, if it be soberly and opportunely used."
Adjective
- 1 Causing alteration.
- 2 Causing alteration.; Gradually changing, or tending to change, a morbid state into a healthy one.
Adjective
- 1 tending to cure or restore to health wordnet
Example
More examples"Amongst this number of cordials and alteratives I do not find a more present remedy than a cup of wine or strong drink, if it be soberly and opportunely used."
Etymology
From Latin alterativum, noun use of alterativus.