preparative — English Dictionary

Adjective

1. That serves to prepare something

   Examples

   preparative chromatography

2. preliminary or preparatory

   Examples

   preparative discussions

3. Pertaining to the synthesis, purification, or isolation of compounds from mixtures or raw materials.

Noun

1. Something to be done in preparation; a preliminary

   Examples

   necessary preparatives for our voyage

   a preparative unto sermons

   More examples (1)

   All wars are boyish, and are fought by boys, / The champions and enthusiasts of the state: / Turbid ardors and vain joys / Not barrenly abate— / Stimulants to the power mature, / Preparatives of fate.

Adjective

1. preceding and preparing for something

   Synonyms

   preparatorypropaedeutic

   Examples

   preparatory steps