laxative

1 of 2

adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sə-tiv How to pronounce laxative (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 How to pronounce laxative (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce laxative (audio)
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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!