Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Adj.

[L.

laxativus

mitigating, assuaging: cf. F.

laxatif

. See

Adj.

]

Having a tendency to loosen or relax.

Milton.

(Med.)

Having the effect of loosening or opening the intestines, and relieving from constipation; – opposed to

astringent

–

Noun.

(Med.)

A laxative medicine. See the Note under

Adj.

[L. laxo.] Having the power or quality of loosening or opening the bowels, and relieving from constipation.

Noun.

A medicine that relaxes the bowels and relieves from costiveness; a gentle purgative.