subtractive process

noun

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

subtractive process

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of subtractive process¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

It is a subtractive process that starts with a solid block, usually stone, which is highly resistant to the sculptor’s chisel.

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

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

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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.

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