jalap

noun

jal·​ap ˈja-ləp How to pronounce jalap (audio) ˈjä- How to pronounce jalap (audio)
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

Time Traveler
The first known use of jalap was in 1644

Dictionary Entries Near jalap

Cite this Entry

“Jalap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jalap. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

jalap

noun
jal·​ap ˈjal-əp How to pronounce jalap (audio) ˈjäl- How to pronounce jalap (audio)
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

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