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.

To cause an abortion; to render without fruit.

Produced by abortion; born prematurely and therefore unnatural.

"an abortive child"

Coming to nothing; failing in its effect; miscarrying; fruitless; unsuccessful.

"an abortive attempt"

Imperfectly formed or developed; rudimentary; sterile.

"an abortive organ"

(pharmaceutical effect) Causing abortion; abortifacient

"abortive medicines"

Cutting short; acting to halt or slow the progress (of a disease).

"abortive treatment of typhoid fever"

Made from the skin of a still-born animal.

"abortive vellum"