restorative

American  

[ri-stawr-uh-tiv, -stohr-] / rɪˈstɔr ə tɪv, -ˈstoʊr- /

adjective

1. serving to restore; pertaining to restoration.

2. capable of renewing health or strength.

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noun

1. a restorative agent, means, or the like.

2. a means of restoring a person to consciousness.

   Smelling salts serve as a restorative.

restorative British  

/ rɪˈstɒrətɪv /

adjective

1. tending to revive or renew health, spirits, etc

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noun

1. anything that restores or revives, esp a drug or agent that promotes health or strength

Other Word Forms

• nonrestorative adjective
• unrestorative adjective

Etymology

Origin of restorative

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English restoratif (adjective and noun), from Middle French restauratif, from Latin restaurāt(us) (past participle of restaurāre “to rebuild, repair”; restore ) + Middle French -if -ive

Example Sentences

Dreams, especially those that are vivid and immersive, may actually make sleep feel deeper and more restorative rather than interrupting it.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

Despite being non-binding, the resolution goes beyond simple acknowledgment and asks nations involved in the slave trade to engage in restorative justice.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

Brothy things Soups that feel restorative rather than heavy: miso, chicken broth, vegetable soups with plenty of herbs and lemon.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2026

Through restorative justice, her mum Danielle O'Halloran met Roberts behind bars, seeking closure, answers and a way to live as a mother "who isn't just here to survive".

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

Darris and another organizer, Maria Dominguez, contacted Jasmine to see if she might be interested in something called restorative justice.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater