constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

1

: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of usually dry hardened feces

2

: stultification

Examples of constipation in a Sentence

A side effect of the drug is constipation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies have found that acupuncture can help to improve constipation by promoting gastrointestinal movement and regulating hormones. —Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 8 May 2025

Body pain, constipation, signs of depression, changes in the ability to smell or see colors, and excessive daytime sleepiness can all be early signs of Parkinson’s disease, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 7 May 2025

Fiber-rich foods like beans, whole grains, legumes, and nuts can help prevent constipation in the first place. —Sarah Klein, Time, 29 Apr. 2025

Treatment methods focus on alleviating constipation and restoring normal bowel movements. —Cristina Mutchler, Health, 24 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for constipation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

: abnormally difficult or infrequent bowel movements

Medical Definition

constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of dry hardened feces