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

Key Takeaways Chia seeds may help relieve constipation because their soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel that softens and bulks stool. — Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 7 Aug. 2026

But at any age, get a checkup for symptoms such as blood in stool or rectal bleeding; changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of stool that lasts more than a few days; unintended weight loss; and cramps or abdominal pain. — ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

Other potential side effects of the drugs include gastrointestinal issues such as stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea and constipation. — Eve Chen, USA Today, 20 July 2026

Slow gastric emptying can worsen constipation—a common complaint in older adults. — Liz Seegert, Scientific American, 19 July 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