laxation

[ lak-sey-shuhn ]

noun

1. a loosening or relaxing.
2. the state of being loosened or relaxed.
3. a bowel movement.

laxation

/ lækˈseɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of making lax or the state of being lax
2. physiol defecation

Word History and Origins

Origin of laxation¹

1350–1400; Middle English laxacion < Latin laxātiōn- (stem of laxātiō ) a loosening, equivalent to laxāt ( us ) (past participle of laxāre to loosen, derivative of laxus; lax ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of laxation¹

C14: from Latin laxātio, from laxāre to slacken

Example Sentences

For constipation: Researchers believe the soluble and insoluble fibers help aid in laxation for a desirably soft, bulky stool.

From US News

Kiwifruit is a good source of fiber, like many fruits, but research supports that kiwifruit fibers have a high water holding capacity, aiding in laxation in the colon.

From US News

While Passover only comes once each year, these lessons in laxation have year-round applicability.

From US News

Besides taking part in this composition, the bran, being in a great measure insoluble, passes in bulk through the bowels, assisting daily laxation—a most important consideration.

From Project Gutenberg