abortive
Pronunciation:
/əˈbɔː.tɪv//əˈbɔɹ.tɪv/noun
Definitions
That which is born or brought forth prematurely; an abortion.
A fruitless effort or issue.
A medicine to which is attributed the property of causing abortion, abortifacient.
verb
Definitions
To cause an abortion; to render without fruit.
adjective
Definitions
Produced by abortion; born prematurely and therefore unnatural.
Example: an abortive child
Coming to nothing; failing in its effect; miscarrying; fruitless; unsuccessful.
Example: an abortive attempt
Imperfectly formed or developed; rudimentary; sterile.
Example: an abortive organ
(pharmaceutical effect) Causing abortion; abortifacient
Example: abortive medicines