excipient

 
Pronunciation: /ɛkˈsɪpɪənt/

noun

  • an inactive substance that serves as the vehicle or medium for a drug or other active substance: excipients are things like colouring agents, preservatives, and fillers

Origin:

early 18th century (as an adjective in the sense 'that takes exception'): from Latin excipient- 'taking out', from the verb excipere