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

Signs of an unhealthy gut go beyond bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. —Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 11 June 2026

The program addresses constipation, food allergies, GERD, acid reflux, gluten intolerance, IBS and broader microbiome support. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 11 June 2026

The same slowed digestion that curbs appetite is what causes the most common Ozempic side effects — nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal discomfort. —Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 June 2026

Other and more recent tests for Parkinson’s incorporate non-motor symptoms, such as loss of sense of smell and constipation, as correlative of the disease. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 10 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