constipation

noun

con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce constipation (audio)
1
: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of usually dry hardened feces
2

Examples of constipation in a Sentence

A side effect of the drug is constipation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Peppermint Peppermint is an herb often used in teas to help with digestive problems, including bloating and constipation. Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2024 Bhatia sees microdosing as an option for clients who come to her office with the goal of losing 20 pounds or less or patients who have proved to be sensitive to the side effects of GLP-1, which include nausea, constipation, lack of energy and diarrhea. Jackie Snow, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024 Allergic reactions to milk are immune responses to proteins—whey and casein—in the milk, unlike lactose intolerance reactions which produce gut symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal cramping. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 Gastrointestinal diseases cause a wide range of symptoms, including heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for constipation 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of constipation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near constipation

Cite this Entry

“Constipation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/constipation. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

constipation

noun
con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce constipation (audio)
: abnormally difficult or infrequent bowel movements

Medical Definition

constipation

noun
con·​sti·​pa·​tion ˌkän(t)-stə-ˈpā-shən How to pronounce constipation (audio)
: abnormally delayed or infrequent passage of dry hardened feces

More from Merriam-Webster on constipation

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