1
: any of a genus (Senna synonym Cassia) of leguminous herbs, shrubs, and trees native to warm regions
especially
: one used medicinally
2
: the dried leaflets or pods of various sennas (especially Senna alexandrina synonym Cassia angustifolia) used as a purgative
Examples of senna in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
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
Examples of laxatives include senna and Dulcolax (bisacodyl).
—Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 6 Jan. 2025
In recent years laxatives have had a mainstream makeover: skinny teas and candies containing senna—an herbal laxative—were popular on Instagram several years ago.
—Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023
This form of laxative is thought to be a more gentle alternative to senna leaf, which has been used as constipation relief for centuries.
—Jenny Friedman, Ms, Parents, 3 Aug. 2023
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Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 3 June 2026
Examples of laxatives include senna and Dulcolax (bisacodyl).
—Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 6 Jan. 2025
In recent years laxatives have had a mainstream makeover: skinny teas and candies containing senna—an herbal laxative—were popular on Instagram several years ago.
—Lori Youmshajekian, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023
This form of laxative is thought to be a more gentle alternative to senna leaf, which has been used as constipation relief for centuries.
—Jenny Friedman, Ms, Parents, 3 Aug. 2023
Cite this Entry
“Senna.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/senna. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
senna
noun
sen·na
ˈsen-ə 
1
: cassia sense 2
especially
: one used as a medicine
2
: the dried leaves or pods of various cassias used as a strong laxative
Medical Definition
senna
noun
sen·na
ˈsen-ə
1
: any of a genus (Senna synonym Cassia) of leguminous plants of warm regions
especially
: one used medicinally
2
: the dried leaflets or pods of various sennas (especially Senna alexandrina synonym Cassia angustifolia) used as a purgative
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