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

Coffee isn't a long-term solution for constipation, and relying on it for regular bowel movements may have unintended consequences. —Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 21 July 2025

One of the biggest benefits of prune juice is sorbitol, a carbohydrate effective in aiding constipation. —Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 15 July 2025

Roughly 38% of the participants experienced mild gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and constipation. —Julia Ries, Health, 10 July 2025

Botulism Symptoms Symptoms of botulism include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, speech or swallowing difficulties, muscle weakness, abdominal distension and constipation. —Matt Cannon, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th 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