laxative

1 of 2

adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sə-tiv 

: having a tendency to loosen or relax

specifically : producing bowel movements and relieving constipation

laxative

2 of 2

noun

: a usually mild laxative drug

Examples of laxative in a Sentence

Noun

The doctor prescribed a laxative.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Due to their slow absorption, sugar alcohols can draw water into the colon and cause laxative effects, especially at higher doses. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 3 Apr. 2025

Stimulant laxative herbs: Taking ACV with stimulant laxative herbs can increase the likelihood of low potassium levels. —Ashley Wong, Health, 11 Feb. 2025

Noun

Laxatives Short-term use of an over-the-counter laxative may prompt your bowel movements. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 8 Apr. 2025

It's often recommended that some laxatives be taken at night,6 although that is not stipulated for fiber supplements. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English laxatif, from Medieval Latin laxativus, from Latin laxatus, past participle of laxare to loosen, from laxus

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

laxative

1 of 2 adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sət-iv 

: tending to relieve constipation

laxative

2 of 2 noun

: a usually mild drug that helps relieve constipation compare purgative

Medical Definition

laxative

1 of 2 adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sət-iv 

1

: having a tendency to loosen or relax

specifically : relieving constipation

2

: lax sense 2

laxatively adverb

laxative

2 of 2 noun

: a usually mild laxative drug