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Definition of constipate

constipate

/ˈkɑːn.stə.peɪt/
con · sti · pate
Adjective:constipated
•
Past Simple:constipated
•
Past Participle:constipated
•
Present Participle:constipating
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constipate Lexical Profile

constipate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cause difficulty or infrequency in emptying the bowels.

Example

"A diet lacking in dietary fiber and fluids can easily constipate a patient recovering from surgery."

2

To cause something to become sluggish, cramped, or obstructed in flow or progress (used figuratively).

Example

"Excessive bureaucratic regulations threatened to constipate the entire approval process."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for constipate

Word Nuance & Usage

In modern usage, the active verb 'constipate' is relatively rare compared to its participial adjective form ('constipated') and noun derivative ('constipation').

• Nearby Words

constantly
constellation
consternation
constipate
constipated
constipation
constituency

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 16th century from Latin 'constipatus', the past participle of 'constipare' meaning 'to press or crowd closely together', formed from 'con-' (together) and 'stipare' (to cram or pack).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Constipate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/constipate
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