/fik"seuh tiv/ , adj.
1. serving to fix; making fixed or permanent.
n. Also, fixatif /fik"seuh tiv, -teef'/ .
2. a fixative substance, as a gummy liquid sprayed on a drawing to prevent blurring, or a solution for killing, hardening, and preserving material for microscopic study.
3. Also called fixer . Photog. a chemical substance, as sodium thiosulfate, used to promote fixation.
4. a substance that retards evaporation, as in the manufacture of perfume.
[ 1635-45; FIX + -ATIVE ]