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

Digestive issues: If protein intake is high and fiber intake is low, changes in bowel habits, like constipation or diarrhea, may occur. —Lauren Panoff, Mph, Rd, Verywell Health, 18 Apr. 2025

There were no liver issues recorded, and the side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and constipation, were similar to those linked to tirzepatide. —Alice Park, Time, 17 Apr. 2025

Side effects were the same as those with the injectable obesity drugs — diarrhea, indigestion, constipation, nausea and vomiting. —Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025

Avoid constipation as excessive straining can weaken the pelvic floor. —Violeta Valdés, Vogue, 9 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