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

Other common symptoms include prolonged changes in bowel habits, such as new diarrhea or new constipation, thinner stools and abdominal pain. —Andrea Kane, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2025

Helps With Digestion The fiber in butternut squash can help promote gut health and prevent constipation. —Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025

Again, this research and guidance focuses on chronic constipation. —Korin Miller, SELF, 14 Oct. 2025

Studies have shown that rye bread, which is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, can relieve constipation more than white bread or common laxatives without negative side effects. —Erica Sweeney, EverydayHealth.com, 14 Oct. 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