Laxatives Meaning in English

word · lemma: laxative

US

ˈɫæksətɪvz

LAK-suh-tivz

UK

lˈæksətˌɪvz

LAK-suh-tivz

Definition

Medicines or substances that help people have bowel movements, usually used to relieve constipation.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used in medical contexts; usually plural. Overuse can lead to health problems. Collocates with 'take', 'use', 'over-the-counter', and 'prescription'. Not the same as 'diuretics' (which act on urine).

• Spanish: laxantes
• Portuguese (BR): laxantes
• Portuguese (PT): laxantes
• Chinese (Simplified): 泻药
• Chinese (Traditional): 瀉藥
• Hindi: मल त्याग को बढ़ाने वाली दवा
• Arabic: المُليّنات
• Bengali: জোলাপ
• Russian: слабительные
• Japanese: 下剤
• Vietnamese: thuốc nhuận tràng
• Korean: 완하제
• Turkish: laksatif - müshil
• Urdu: جلاب
• Indonesian: pencahar

Example Sentences

Taking laxatives can help when you have constipation.

basic

Some laxatives are sold without a prescription.

basic

Doctors sometimes recommend laxatives after surgery.

basic

Don't use laxatives regularly without talking to your doctor first.

natural

She bought some natural laxatives to try before using medicine.

natural

After traveling, I needed laxatives because my stomach felt blocked.

natural