Definition

Causing something to become dry or lose moisture.

Example

The desiccative properties of the substance made it useful for preserving food.

Conversation

Have you tried that new desiccative snack they sell at the store?

No, I haven't seen it yet. What does it taste like?

It's actually pretty good, but it can be a bit too desiccative for my liking.

I get that! Sometimes those dry snacks can be hard to enjoy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Desiccative → It is formed from "desiccare" (meaning to dry out) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "desiccative" refers to something that has the nature of drying out or causing dryness.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'dries out' ('desiccare') — that's why desiccative means having the quality of causing dryness.

Visually Confused Words