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Laxative: meaning, definitions and examples

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laxative

 

[ˈlaksətɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medicine

A laxative is a medicine or food that helps you to empty your bowels.

Synonyms

cathartic, purgative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
laxative

Used in everyday conversations and medical settings to describe substances that help relieve constipation in a mild and gentle manner.

  • She took a mild laxative to help with her constipation
purgative

This word is more intense and is used mainly in medical settings to refer to substances that completely cleanse the bowels. It can sometimes carry a negative or harsh connotation.

  • The doctor prescribed a purgative before the surgical procedure to ensure the bowels were completely clear
cathartic

Commonly used in literary or emotional contexts to describe something that provides psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions. In a medical setting, it is a stronger term for an agent that cleanses the bowels.

  • Watching the movie was a cathartic experience for him, allowing him to process his grief

Examples of usage

  • He took a laxative to relieve his constipation.
  • She recommended drinking prune juice as a natural laxative.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing effect

Having the effect of loosening or opening the bowels.

Synonyms

cathartic, purgative.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
laxative

Typically used in everyday language to refer to substances or medications that help relieve constipation by softening stools or stimulating bowel movements.

  • She took a mild laxative for her constipation.
  • The doctor recommended a natural laxative like prunes.
purgative

Typically used in medical or more formal contexts to describe strong substances that completely cleanse the bowels. These are generally stronger than regular laxatives and may have a more intense effect.

  • They gave him a purgative to prepare for the medical procedure.
  • Ancient physicians often used purgatives as a common treatment.
cathartic

Often used in a broader sense to describe an emotional release or cleansing experience, though it can also refer to a medical substance that cleanses or purges the bowels.

  • Writing in her journal felt like a cathartic experience.
  • The doctor prescribed a cathartic to clear his bowels before the surgery.

Examples of usage

  • The laxative properties of the herbal tea helped with digestion.
  • She experienced the laxative effect of the medication.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Latin word 'laxare,' which means 'to loosen or relax.'
  • The concept of using laxatives has been known since ancient times, with various natural substances being used.
  • The term has evolved through various languages before taking its current form in English.

Health & Science

  • Laxatives can be classified into several types, including bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, and lubricant, each working differently.
  • Overusing laxatives can lead to dependency, where the body struggles to function normally without them.
  • Dietary fibers found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can act as natural laxatives.

Pop Culture

  • Laxatives have been featured in various movies and shows as comedic elements, often exaggerating their effects for humor.
  • In literature, they sometimes symbolize the need for cleansing or releasing burdens, both physically and emotionally.
  • Popular wellness influencers often discuss the importance of gut health, which includes the use of laxatives.

History

  • Ancient Egyptians used castor oil as a laxative and believed it had healing properties.
  • In the 19th century, some laxative products were advertised with claims that they could cure various ailments, which was often misleading.
  • Traditional medicine systems, like Ayurveda, include laxative herbs that are considered natural remedies.

Psychology

  • People's experiences with bowel regularity can often affect their mood and overall well-being, linking physical health to mental state.
  • There’s a stigma around discussing bowel movements, which can lead to people feeling anxious about their digestive health.
  • The psychological aspect of 'going' can sometimes lead to avoidance behaviors or unhealthy practices.

Translations

Translations of the word "laxative" in other languages:

🇵🇹 laxante

🇮🇳 रेचक

🇩🇪 Abführmittel

🇮🇩 pencahar

🇺🇦 проносний засіб

🇵🇱 środek przeczyszczający

🇯🇵 下剤

🇫🇷 laxatif

🇪🇸 laxante

🇹🇷 müshil

🇰🇷 완하제

🇸🇦 ملين

🇨🇿 projímadlo

🇸🇰 preháňadlo

🇨🇳 泻药

🇸🇮 odvajalo

🇮🇸 laxerandi

🇰🇿 іш жүргізетін дәрі

🇬🇪 საშლელი

🇦🇿 iç qovucu

🇲🇽 laxante

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,386, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.