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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 Tragedy often exerts a subtractive centrifugal force on a family, spinning apart and severing the bonds of those who remain. Laura Van Straaten, Town & Country, 25 Feb. 2023 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

Dictionary Entries Near subtractive

Cite this Entry

“Subtractive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subtractive. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

subtractive

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

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