laxative

1 of 2

adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sə-tiv 

: having a tendency to loosen or relax

specifically : producing bowel movements and relieving constipation

laxative

2 of 2

noun

: a usually mild laxative drug

Examples of laxative in a Sentence

Noun

The doctor prescribed a laxative.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Citrate is cheapest but its mild laxative effect can backfire at night. —Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 13 May 2026

Other bioactive compounds have antioxidant, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and laxative properties. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 May 2026

Noun

Many detox teas contain laxatives like senna, which can cause side effects like diarrhea, cramping, and bloating if overused. —Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 3 June 2026

No laxative prep or dietary changes are needed. —Erika Edwards, NBC news, 27 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English laxatif, from Medieval Latin laxativus, from Latin laxatus, past participle of laxare to loosen, from laxus

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

laxative

1 of 2 adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sət-iv 

: tending to relieve constipation

laxative

2 of 2 noun

: a usually mild drug that helps relieve constipation compare purgative

Medical Definition

laxative

1 of 2 adjective

lax·​a·​tive ˈlak-sət-iv 

1

: having a tendency to loosen or relax

specifically : relieving constipation

2

: lax sense 2

laxatively adverb

laxative

2 of 2 noun

: a usually mild laxative drug