constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

1

: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of usually dry hardened feces

2

: stultification

Examples of constipation in a Sentence

A side effect of the drug is constipation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Both soluble and insoluble fiber help with constipation. — Jessica Swirble, Verywell Health, 25 June 2026

Her symptoms of lower abdominal pain and constipation were either dismissed or blamed on female issues by several different doctors. — Stephanie Stahl, CBS News, 24 June 2026

For one, consuming fiber helps with digestion by adding bulk to stools and softening them, which helps ease constipation. — Cathy Cassata, Health, 24 June 2026

This can help promote soft, regular bowel movements and prevent constipation, Ehsani notes. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 19 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for constipation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

: abnormally difficult or infrequent bowel movements

Medical Definition

constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən 

: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of dry hardened feces