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

Studies show kefir increases stool frequency, improves stool consistency, improves colon transit time, and decreases laxative use.13 7. —Anna Meyer, Cpt, Health, 16 Oct. 2024

Other laxative options are Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) and lubricant laxatives like glycerin and mineral oil. —Patricia Weiser, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024

Noun

Timing of Relief Stimulant laxatives work at different rates. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024

Certain foods rich in fiber, fluids, and natural laxatives can stimulate bowel movements and make stool softer and easier to pass. —Anna Meyer, Cpt, Health, 16 Oct. 2024

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