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

The government also said last month that its total debt — the cumulative total of all the deficits — has reached a gargantuan $40 trillion.

— Christopher Rugaber, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026
That performance propelled the film’s cumulative gross to $981,195.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 2 Sep. 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 soft gray-white rattan complements the tailored beige high-density comfort cushions and creates an airy backdrop for your ever-evolving collection of seasonal all-weather pillows and throws.

— Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026
That number may determine whether Andy Reid retains a full complement of running backs and tight ends.

— Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of complement

Noun

Key Takeaways Calcium supplements can help maintain bone health, especially for people who don’t get enough calcium from food or are at higher risk of fractures, like those with osteoporosis.

— Jennifer Lefton, Verywell Health, 3 Sep. 2026
The kosher-, gluten-, dairy-, and sugar-free supplement has a 20-ounce volume (that’s about 28 servings) and promises to support skin, bones, hair, nails, and joints alike with its 20 grams of collagen peptides per serving.

— Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of supplement

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additive

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Style

“Additive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/additive. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of additive

adjective

noun

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