prophylactic

Definition

A medicine which preserves or defends against disease; a preventive.

Etymology

From Latin prophylacticus, from Ancient Greek προφυλακτικός (prophulaktikós, “prophylactic”).

Example Sentences

• "It is not clear whether such education is to be directed to homosexuals (for whom prophylactics are not a contraceptive) or to heterosexuals as well (for whom prophylactics are a contraceptive)."
• "Given the widespread use of coitus interruptus and male prophylactics as contraceptive practices in France […]"
• "Some men put the prophylactic on just the tip of the penis: this is a mistake, because the prophylactic will come off."