preventive medicine
Americannoun
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the branch of medical science that deals with prevention of disease.
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a medication or other agent used for prophylaxis.
Etymology
Origin of preventive medicine
First recorded in 1760–70
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Doctors also see preventive medicine as a key to preserving longevity.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
She said: "Parasite control and preventive medicine remains an important part of protecting animal health and welfare."
From BBC ● Jun. 10, 2026
The biggest advance in preventive medicine might well be that thin band on your wrist or titanium ring on your finger.
From MarketWatch ● May 28, 2026
The next year, he opened Attia Medical, a concierge preventive medicine practice; in 2016, he rebranded to Early Medical, a name that emphasizes the practice’s focus on maintaining healthspan and increasing lifespan.
From Slate ● Feb. 26, 2026
In a swift and decisive practice of preventive medicine, Dr. Snow removed the handle from the pump.
From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.