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

Roughly 86% of the intervention group reported mild to moderate side effects, primarily during the early weeks, including headaches, fatigue, dizziness and constipation, though researchers noted that no severe medical complications occurred. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 2 Nov. 2026

Drinking more water and eating more fiber can also help relieve constipation. — Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 2 Nov. 2026

The short-term side effects have been well advertised (and experienced), as 28 percent of respondents diagnosed with obesity currently on a GLP-1 had dealt with nausea or vomiting and 42 percent reported diarrhea and constipation. — Natalia Johnsen, EverydayHealth.com, 27 Oct. 2026

Opioids can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, urinary retention, sleepiness and difficulty thinking clearly. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 26 Oct. 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