lax·a·tive
ˈlak-sə-tiv
: having a tendency to loosen or relax
specifically
: producing bowel movements and relieving constipation
: a usually mild laxative drug
Examples of laxative in a Sentence
Noun
The doctor prescribed a laxative.
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Adjective
Supplements that can have a laxative effect include flaxseed, gardenia, and rose hip.
—Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 6 Jan. 2025
This means the digestive system doesn't move food through the intestines properly, which can lead to problems like gas, stomach discomfort, and laxative effects.
—Johna Burdeos, Health, 30 Nov. 2024
Noun
Excessive urination Using alcohol Certain medications, like diuretics, laxatives, and certain chemotherapies
Discuss which medical conditions or medications may affect your magnesium levels with your healthcare provider.
—Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 14 Jan. 2025
This is an over-the-counter or prescription laxative.
—Kelly Burch, Verywell Health, 4 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for laxative
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
Time Traveler
The first known use of laxative was
in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near laxative
Cite this Entry
“Laxative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laxative. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.
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
laxatively
adverb
laxative
2 of 2 noun
: a usually mild laxative drug
More from Merriam-Webster on laxative
Nglish: Translation of laxative for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of laxative for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about laxative
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