laxative

/ˈlæksədɪv/
/ˈlæksətɪv/
IPA guide

Other forms: laxatives

Definitions of laxative
  1. adjective
    stimulating evacuation of feces
    synonyms:
    aperient
    mildly laxative
    cathartic, evacuant, purgative
    strongly laxative
    see moresee less
    antonyms:
    costive
    retarding evacuation of feces; binding; constipating
  2. noun
    a mild cathartic
    see moresee less
    types:
    phenolphthalein
    a laxative used in many preparations under various trade names; also used as an acid-base indicator in titrations involving weak acids and strong bases because it is brilliant red at high alkalinity and colorless below pH 8
    type of:
    aperient, cathartic, physic, purgative
    a purging medicine; stimulates evacuation of the bowels
Pronunciation
US
/ˈlæksədɪv/
UK
/ˈlæksətɪv/
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘laxative'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family