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Constipate: meaning, definitions and examples

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constipate

 

[ ˈkɒnstɪpeɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

medical condition

To constipate is to cause a person or animal to experience difficulty in bowel movements leading to infrequent or hard stools. This condition can result from various factors including dietary habits, dehydration, lack of exercise, or medication side effects. It is often characterized by symptoms such as discomfort, abdominal pain, and bloating. Chronic constipation can lead to further health complications if not addressed.

Synonyms

block, impede, obstruct

Examples of usage

  • A diet low in fiber may constipate some individuals.
  • Certain medications can constipate patients recovering from surgery.
  • Dehydration is a common cause that can constipate anyone.
  • Stress can lead to changes in metabolism which may constipate you.

Translations

Translations of the word "constipate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 constipar

🇮🇳 कब्ज़ होना

🇩🇪 verstopfen

🇮🇩 sembelit

🇺🇦 запор

🇵🇱 zatkać

🇯🇵 便秘になる

🇫🇷 constiper

🇪🇸 estreñir

🇹🇷 kabız olmak

🇰🇷 변비에 걸리다

🇸🇦 الإمساك

🇨🇿 zácpa

🇸🇰 zápcha

🇨🇳 便秘

🇸🇮 zaprtje

🇮🇸 hægðatregða

🇰🇿 іш қату

🇬🇪 გადაგდება

🇦🇿 qəbizlik

🇲🇽 estreñir

Etymology

The term 'constipate' comes from the Latin word 'constipare', which means 'to press together.' This Latin word is a combination of 'con-', meaning 'together' or 'with', and 'stuppare', which means 'to stuff or pack.' The usage of 'constipate' in English can be traced back to the early 17th century when it began to be associated with the inability to have normal bowel movements. Over the years, the word has maintained its medical connotation and is primarily used in clinical settings to describe the condition affecting the digestive system. It reflects the growing understanding of gastrointestinal health and the importance of regular bowel function for overall well-being.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,799, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.