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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

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

Learn More about jalap

See words that rhyme with jalap Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about jalap

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