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
Michelle Pugle, Verywell Health, 23 Dec. 2025
Senna tea is known to have a laxative effect and is often used as a remedy for constipation.
—Jenna Anderson, Health, 18 Dec. 2025
Lindsey Desoto, Health, 15 Jan. 2026
Studies show that people with IBS-C who eat two green kiwis a day for four weeks have more bowel movements and rely less on laxatives.
—Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for laxative
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Adjective
It's said to work through a laxative effect.
—Michelle Pugle, Verywell Health, 23 Dec. 2025
Senna tea is known to have a laxative effect and is often used as a remedy for constipation.
—Jenna Anderson, Health, 18 Dec. 2025
Noun
Aloin is an organic compound that gives the plant laxative properties.
—Lindsey Desoto, Health, 15 Jan. 2026
Studies show that people with IBS-C who eat two green kiwis a day for four weeks have more bowel movements and rely less on laxatives.
—Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for laxative
Cite this Entry
“Laxative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laxative. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.
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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