jalap

noun jal·ap \ ˈja-ləp , ˈjä- \

Definition of jalap

1 a : the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant (Ipomoea purga synonym Exogonium purga) of the morning-glory family; also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from it that contains resinous glycosides

b : the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap

2 : a plant yielding jalap

Origin and Etymology of jalap

French & Spanish; French jalap, from Spanish jalapa, from Jalapa, Mexico

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1644

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

jalap

noun jal·ap \ ˈjal-əp , ˈjäl- \

medical Definition of jalap

1 a : the dried tuberous root of a Mexican plant of the genus Ipomoea (I. purga); also : a powdered purgative drug prepared from this root that contains resinous glycosides

b : the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap — see tampico jalap

2 : a plant yielding jalap