{ , a. [ Gr. &unr_;, fr. &unr_; to guard against; &unr_; before + &unr_; to guard: cf. F. prophylactique. ] (Med.) Defending or preserving from disease; preventive. Coxe. [ 1913 Webster ]
(n) contraceptive device consisting of a sheath of thin rubber or latex that is worn over the penis during intercourse, Syn. safe, prophylactic, safety, rubber
(n) remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease, Syn. prophylactic, preventative, Example:the doctor recommended several preventatives
(adj) preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease, Syn. prophylactic, preventative, Example:preventive medicine; vaccines are prophylactic; a prophylactic drug