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 glycosidesb : the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap
2 : a plant yielding jalap
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Origin and Etymology of jalap
French & Spanish; French jalap, from Spanish jalapa, from Jalapa, Mexico
First Known Use: 1644
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of jalap
1a: 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 glycosidesb: the root or derived drug of plants related to the one supplying jalap—see tampico jalap
2: a plant yielding jalap
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See words that rhyme with jalap Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jalap
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