Lax"a*tive (?), a. [L. laxativus mitigating, assuaging: cf. F. laxatif. See Lax, a.]
1.
Having a tendency to loosen or relax.
Milton.
2. Med.
Having the effect of loosening or opening the intestines, and relieving from constipation; -- opposed to astringent.
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n. Med.
A laxative medicine. See the Note under Cathartic.
© Webster 1913.