jalap

American  

[jal-uhp, jah-luhp] / ˈdʒæl əp, ˈdʒɑ ləp /

noun

1. the dried tuberous root of any of several plants, especially Exogonium purga, of the morning glory family, or the light yellowish powder derived from it, used in medicine chiefly as a purgative.

2. any of these plants.

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jalap British  

/ ˈdʒæləp, dʒəˈlæpɪk /

noun

1. a Mexican convolvulaceous plant, Exogonium (or Ipomoea ) purga

2. any of several similar or related plants

3. the dried and powdered root of any of these plants, used as a purgative

4. the resin obtained from any of these plants

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Other Word Forms

• jalapic adjective

Etymology

Origin of jalap

1665–75; < Middle French < Spanish ( purga de ) Jalapa purgative from Jalapa

Example Sentences

Dr. Adam Kuhn called the mercury and jalap drink “a murderous dose” and said so in the newspapers.

From "An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793" by Jim Murphy

At Barrett’s apothecary, Eliza purchased jalap and Bohea tea.

From "Fever 1793" by Laurie Halse Anderson

"Have we finished the bottle of jalap?" inquired Pybus.

From Amusement Only by Marsh, Richard

The bowels were kept open by jalap and the potassium bitartrate.

From A System of Practical Medicine by American Authors, Vol. I Volume 1: Pathology and General Diseases by Various

If jalap has been used, it will form a thick film on the top, and the heavy ingredients will sink to the bottom.

From The Cook and Housekeeper's Complete and Universal Dictionary; Including a System of Modern Cookery, in all Its Various Branches, Adapted to the Use of Private Families by Eaton, Mary, fl. 1823-1849