ADDITIVE Synonyms: 40 Similar and Opposite Words

additive 1 of 2

adjective

ˈa-də-tiv

Definition of additive

as in cumulative

produced by a series of additions of identical or similar things certain drugs have additive effects when taken in conjunction with each other that one doesn't see when any one is used alone

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

additive

2 of 2

noun

as in subsidiary

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Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of additive

Adjective

The speed of additive construction changes the blueprint for military logistics. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 31 July 2026 This combination of climatic, conflict, market and epidemic shocks are not simply additive but multiplicative, with each intensifying the other. — Peter Hailey, The Conversation, 16 July 2026

Noun

Take Bovaer, a popular feed additive that reduces cows’ methane emissions — or, in other words, minimizes the methane in their burps. — Marlowe Starling, Quanta Magazine, 27 July 2026 Wool is fully biodegradable and can be used as a mulch, fertilizer, and soil additive. — Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for additive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for additive

Adjective

Under the settlement, teen accounts would default to a setting that limits cumulative use across both Facebook and Instagram to two hours per day.

— Steve Kopack, NBC news, 26 Aug. 2026
Yet these sectors are placing overlapping claims on the same forests and finite land, putting cumulative pressure on an increasingly fragile resource base.

— Kari Stoever, Footwear News, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of cumulative

Noun

For now, though, Meridian developer CBH Homes and its subsidiaries will be able to start what amounts to a quarter of the original design.

— Mark Dee August 27, Idaho Statesman, 27 Aug. 2026
The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved a new medicine from Roivant and its subsidiary Priovant for the treatment of dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and a painful skin rash.

— Adam Feuerstein, STAT, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of subsidiary

Noun

The adventures of Addison’s titular shilling include being hoarded, offered as a bribe, and sent as an insulting accompaniment to a letter disinheriting a son.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Aug. 2026
Pasta salad, potato salad, or other summer vegetable dishes also make perfect accompaniments.

— Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of accompaniment

Noun

The Essence palette features Antique White (011W), a soft neutral that adds balance and ease, and Western Orange (209-4DB), a warm, tonal complement.

— Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026
Many health systems have started to adopt social prescribing not only as a complement to medical treatment, but as a preventative approach to reduce the need for more intensive care.

— Grant Oliphant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of complement

Noun

The co-founder of FIZZNESS, a wellness supplement company, was spotted at Strahan’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2023 and attended Isabella’s high school graduation that same year.

— Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Aug. 2026
The collagen supplement people are adding to coffee and smoothies Many kids aren't getting enough protein.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of supplement

Browse Nearby Words

additions

additive

additives

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“Additive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/additive. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of additive

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

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