subtractive

adjective

sub·​trac·​tive səb-ˈtrak-tiv How to pronounce subtractive (audio)
1
: tending to subtract
2
: constituting or involving subtraction

Examples of subtractive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Maxine used both additive and subtractive painting processes to build textured canvases. — Emma Allen, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026 By greatly expanding the dimensions of his images, with their muted palettes, tight cropping, found symmetries, and laconic wit, had the maestro of the photographic epigram betrayed his subtractive aesthetic? — James Quandt, Artforum, 2 June 2026 The ability to create subtractive colors between the backlights and the color filters helps lead to higher efficiency for improved brightness, potentially equating to Sony's renowned professional monitors. — Ryan Waniata, WIRED, 13 Mar. 2025 The result is a more flexible system that cuts both cost and process time drastically when compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods, while at the same time allowing for material innovation by combining different types of metals in one part. — IEEE Spectrum, 30 June 2017 See All Example Sentences for subtractive

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subtractive was in 1690

Rhymes for subtractive

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Browse Nearby Words

subtraction sign
subtractive
subtractive primary
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Cite this Entry

“Subtractive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subtractive. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subtractive

adjective
sub·​trac·​tive səb-ˈtrak-tiv How to pronounce subtractive (audio)
: being or involving subtraction
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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