lax·a·tive
ˈlak-sə-tiv 
: having a tendency to loosen or relax
specifically
: producing bowel movements and relieving constipation
: a usually mild laxative drug
Examples of laxative in a Sentence
Noun
The doctor prescribed a laxative.
Recent Examples on the Web
Caroline Tien, SELF, 24 June 2025
Aloe vera latex has strong laxative effects, which may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, hypokalemia (low potassium), other electrolyte imbalances, and kidney damage.
—Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 2 June 2025
Adaira Landry, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
Be sure to talk to a healthcare provider for their guidance before using a laxative.
—Robert Burakoff, Health, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for laxative
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Adjective
Compared to most other types of fruit, prunes are especially rich in phenolic compounds—antioxidants that may enhance the laxative effects of fiber and sorbitol.
—Caroline Tien, SELF, 24 June 2025
Aloe vera latex has strong laxative effects, which may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, hypokalemia (low potassium), other electrolyte imbalances, and kidney damage.
—Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 2 June 2025
Noun
Other details: This procedure requires patients to undergo preparation (e.g. dietary modifications and laxatives) beforehand to clear the colon so that there is adequate visualization.
—Adaira Landry, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
Be sure to talk to a healthcare provider for their guidance before using a laxative.
—Robert Burakoff, Health, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for laxative
Cite this Entry
“Laxative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laxative. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
laxatively
adverb
laxative
2 of 2 noun
: a usually mild laxative drug
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