subtractive process

American  

noun

1. a process of color photography in which the colors are formed by combination of cyan, yellow, and magenta lights.

---

subtractive process British  

noun

1. a photographic process in which all but the desired colours are removed by passing the illuminating light through subtractive filters Compare additive process

---

Etymology

Origin of subtractive process

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

“We were playing with this kind of subtractive process,” said McCollough.

From Washington Times

Fire investigation is a subtractive process—investigators cross off potential causes until, ideally, there’s only one left.

From BusinessWeek

Traditional digital manufacturers utilize computer-controlled routers, lasers, and other cutting tools to precisely shape a piece of metal, wood, or plastic by a subtractive process: slicing and dicing until the desired form is all that’s left.

From Slate