subtractive

adjective

sub·​trac·​tive səb-ˈtrak-tiv How to pronounce subtractive (audio)
1
: tending to subtract
2
: constituting or involving subtraction

Examples of subtractive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The ability to create subtractive colors between the backlights and the color filters helps lead to higher efficiency for improved brightness, potentially equating to Sony's renowned professional monitors. Ryan Waniata, WIRED, 13 Mar. 2025 On its face, and by the sound of it, degrowth is subtractive, which seems bad. E. Tammy Kim, The New Yorker, 1 Feb. 2024 But of course nothing like that could have happened, and the actual process was subtractive rather than additive. Jared Diamond, Discover Magazine, 11 Nov. 2019 That eliminates the specialized and time-consuming CNC programming that’s required for the subtractive process. Mantle has worked with a number of parts producers to evaluate and validate its materials and technology, including Tessy Plastics and a global medical device manufacturer. Jim Vinoski, Forbes, 21 Sep. 2021 See All Example Sentences for subtractive

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subtractive was in 1690

Cite this Entry

“Subtractive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subtractive. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

subtractive

adjective
sub·​trac·​tive səb-ˈtrak-tiv How to pronounce subtractive (audio)
: being or involving subtraction
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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