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

Constipation or Diarrhea Changing your diet may cause constipation or diarrhea. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 28 Nov. 2025

The company added that botulism is rare but serious, and shared symptoms to look for in infants, such as constipation, poor feeding, ptosis (drooping eyelid) and sluggish pupils. —Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 27 Nov. 2025

This 3-in-1 formula nourishes good gut bacteria, supports healthy gut microflora, relieves occasional constipation and abdominal discomfort and supports immune function through the gut. —Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2025

Low-fiber meals can slow digestion and may lead to constipation for some people. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 25 Nov. 2025

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