jalap

noun

jal·​ap ˈja-ləp  ˈjä- 

1

a

: the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant (Ipomoea purga synonym Exogonium purga) of the morning-glory family

also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from it that contains resinous glycosides

b

: the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap

2

: a plant yielding jalap

Word History

Etymology

French & Spanish; French jalap, from Spanish jalapa, from Jalapa, Mexico

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Medical Definition

jalap

noun

jal·​ap ˈjal-əp  ˈjäl- 

1

a

: the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant of the genus Ipomoea (I. purga)

also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from this root that contains resinous glycosides

b

: the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap see tampico jalap

2

: a plant yielding jalap