Definition of jalap
1a
: 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
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for jalap
The first known use of jalap was in 1644
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