pro·tec·tive prə-'tek-tiv adj serving to protect the body or one of its parts from disease or injury <a \protective reflex>
protective n an agent (as a medicine or a dressing) that protects the body or one of its parts (as from irritation or injury) <vitamins are \protectives against certain deficiency diseases>
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pro·tec·tive (pro-tekґtiv) [L. protegere to cover over] 1. affording defense or immunity. 2. an agent that provides defense against a deleterious influence, such as a substance applied to the skin (skin p.) to avoid the effects of the sun's rays (solar p.) or other noxious influences; called also screen.Medical dictionary. 2011.