a. and sb. rare. [f. QUALIFY v.: see prec. and -ATIVE. Cf. F. qualificatif, -ive (18th c.).] a. adj. Qualifying; denoting some quality. b. sb. A qualifying word or phrase.
a. 1661. Fuller, Worthies, I. (1662), 59. An Apology for Qualificatives used, and Blanks left in this History.
1860. Forbes Winslow, Obscure Dis. Brain & Mind, 361. Adjectives or qualificatives disappear last.
1862. Rawlinson, Anc. Mon., I. vii. 148. His name … is usually followed by a qualificative adjunct.
