constipate

[ kon-stuh-peyt ]

verb (used with object)

, con·sti·pat·ed, con·sti·pat·ing.

1. to cause constipation in; make costive.
2. Informal. to cause to become slow-moving or immobilized; restrict the action or effectiveness of:

   Bureaucratic red tape can constipate the operations of any government agency.

3. Obsolete. to crowd or pack closely together.

constipate

/ ˈkɒnstɪˌpeɪt /

verb

1. tr to cause constipation in

Other Words From

• con·sti·pat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of constipate¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English past participle constipat, from Latin constīpātus, past participle of constīpāre, equivalent to con- intensive prefix + Latin stīpāre “to crowd, press”); con-, stiff

Word History and Origins

Origin of constipate¹

C16: from Latin constīpāre to press closely together, from stīpāre to crowd together

Example Sentences

Funnily enough, though, his “Napoleon” might have actually benefited from a bit more fuss, a lot more political-historical insight and a less constipated visual style.

From Los Angeles Times

Increase your fiber intake gradually so your digestive system can adjust, and make sure you are also drinking enough water to avoid becoming constipated.

From Seattle Times

If by chance I eat three in a day, I get constipated.

From Seattle Times

The constipated grimace that was his only response is the kind of facial expression that makes press officers weep.

From BBC

Elijah was healthy when he was sent home from hospital but was lethargic and severely constipated, which was initially thought to be jaundice.

From BBC

Related Words

• curb
• muzzle
• repress
• silence
• smother
• squelch
• strangle
• suffocate
• suppress