Alterative

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈɒlt(É™)ɹətɪv/
• US IPA: /ˈɔl.tɚˌaɪ.tɪv/, /ˈɔl.tÉš.É™.tɪv/

Origin

From Latin alterativum, noun use of alterativus.

Full definition of alterative

Noun

1. (medicine, now historical) A medicine or treatment which works by changing processes within the body, rather than by evacuating something etc. from 14th c.
• 1621, Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy, II.5.1.v:Amongst this number of cordials and alteratives I do not find a more present remedy than a cup of wine or strong drink, if it be soberly and opportunely used.

Adjective

1. Causing alteration. Specifically: Gradually changing, or tending to change, a morbid state of the functions into one of health. from 15th c.----