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
Drinking senna tea can increase bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation.
—
Carrie Madormo,
Verywell Health,
4 June 2026
Examples of laxatives include senna and Dulcolax (bisacodyl).
—
Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph,
Health,
6 Jan. 2025
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Carrie Madormo,
Verywell Health,
4 June 2026
Examples of laxatives include senna and Dulcolax (bisacodyl).
—
Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph,
Health,
6 Jan. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Senna.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/senna. Accessed 6 Jul. 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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