fixative

• Substance utilisée pour fixer, préserver ou stabiliser des matériaux, notamment un produit qui fixe les tissus biologiques pour l'examen au microscope ou qui est appliqué sur des œuvres d'art pour empêcher le bavurage.

A noun referring to a substance used to preserve or stabilize materials, such as a compound for fixing biological tissues for microscopic examination or a varnish applied to artwork to prevent smudging.

1. Laboratory fixativeC1formalscientific

   A chemical compound, such as ethanol or formaldehyde, used to preserve and stabilize biological tissues and cells for microscopic examination.

   Fixateur (de laboratoire)

   • The lab technician applied a fixative to the tissue sample before staining.
   • Formaldehyde is a common fixative used in histology.
   • Proper use of a fixative prevents cellular degradation.

   Synonymesfixerfixing agent

2. Art fixativeB2formalart

   A varnish dissolved in alcohol that is sprayed over drawings or paintings to prevent smudging and protect the surface.

   Fixatif (pour dessins et peintures)

   • She used a fixative to preserve her charcoal sketch.
   • The artist sprayed a thin layer of fixative over the pastel drawing.
   • A good fixative prevents the artwork from smudging over time.