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
: stultification

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.
This may help alleviate constipation by decreasing intestinal transit time.6 Probiotics may also help alleviate diarrhea. — Jessica Swirble, Verywell Health, 5 Aug. 2025 Also, be sure to drink plenty of water with fiber-rich foods to avoid constipation. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 29 July 2025 The disease can also cause digestive complications, such as constipation, inflamed gut or general intestinal issues. — Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2025 People with constipation or diarrhea had higher levels of bacteria linked to protein breakdown or those normally found in the upper gut, which are often less beneficial to health. — Pranjal Malewar, New Atlas, 19 July 2025 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

Rhymes for constipation

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Browse Nearby Words

constipated
constipation
constituency
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Cite this Entry

“Constipation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/constipation. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

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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

Nglish: Translation of constipation for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about constipation

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