preparative

comparative more preparative · superlative most preparative

1. That serves to prepare something.

   preparative chromatography

2. Preliminary or preparatory.

   preparative discussions

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

plural preparatives

1. Something to be done in preparation; a preliminary

   a preparative unto sermons

   [1594], Richard Hooker, edited by J[ohn] S[penser], Of the Lawes of Ecclesiastical Politie, […], London: […] Iohn Windet, […], →OCLC, (please specify the page)

   2 more examples

   necessary preparatives for our voyage

   1695, C[harles] A[lphonse] du Fresnoy, translated by John Dryden, De Arte Graphica. The Art of Painting, […], London: […] J[ohn] Heptinstall for W. Rogers, […], →OCLC

   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.

   1866, Herman Melville, Battle-Pieces and Aspects of the War/The March into Virginia