ETYM Greek, to guard against; pro before + phylassein to guard: cf. French prophylactique.
Acting to prevent against disease; preventive.
Preventive against disease; protective.

Or sheath or prophylactic; Barrier contraceptive, made of rubber, which fits over an erect penis and holds in the sperm produced by ejaculation. It is an effective means of preventing pregnancy if used carefully, preferably with a spermicide. A condom with spermicide is 97% effective; one without spermicide is 85% effective as a contraceptive. Condoms also give protection against sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS.
A thin rubber or latex sheath worn over the penis during intercourse as a contraceptive or prophylactic device; SYN. rubber, safety, safe, prophylactic. + prikaži više