A photographic image made on film or specially prepared glass, showing the light and shade or color values reversed from the original, used to make positive prints.

The photographer developed the negatives in the darkroom to create the final prints.

A result of a test or experiment indicating the absence of a particular condition or substance.

The medical test came back with a negative, indicating no presence of the virus.

negativeadjective

Expressing or implying denial, disagreement, or refusal.

Her negative response to the proposal was unexpected.

Characterized by the absence of distinguishing or marked qualities or features; lacking positive attributes.

The negative aspects of the plan outweighed the benefits.

Indicating a lack of progress or a decline in quality or quantity.

The company reported negative growth for the third quarter.

Relating to or denoting a number less than zero.

The temperature dropped to negative five degrees overnight.

Relating to or denoting an electrical charge of the same sign as that of an electron.

The negative terminal of the battery is marked with a minus sign.

Indicating the absence of a specified condition, substance, or pathogen in a test or experiment.

The patient tested negative for influenza.

Unfavourable, pessimistic, or harmful in effect or tone.

The report painted a negative picture of the economy.

negativeadverb

Used to express denial, refusal, or the answer “no,” especially in radio communication.

"Do you require assistance?" – "Negative, we are all set."

negativeverb

To veto, reject, or render void (a proposal, bill, or motion).

The board negatived the amendment after a brief discussion.

To state that something is not true; to deny or refute.

She negatived the rumor that she was leaving the company.