laxative Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a mild cathartic
  2. adjective stimulating evacuation of feces

WordNet

Lax"a*tive adjective
Etymology
L. laxativus mitigating, assuaging: cf. F. laxatif. See Lax, a.
Definitions
  1. Having a tendency to loosen or relax. Milton.
  2. (Med.) Having the effect of loosening or opening the intestines, and relieving from constipation; -- opposed to astringent. -- n. (Med.) A laxative medicine. See the Note under Cathartic.

Webster 1913