a. [ Cf. F. préventif. ]
Any previous counsel or preventive understanding. Cudworth. [ 1913 Webster ]
Physic is either curative or preventive. Sir T. Browne. [ 1913 Webster ]
Preventive service,
n. That which prevents, hinders, or obstructs; that which intercepts access; in medicine, something to prevent disease; a prophylactic. [ 1913 Webster ]
adv. In a preventive manner. [ 1913 Webster ]