aperients
|a-per-i-ent|
C2
/əˈpɪəriənt/
(aperient)
cause opening (of the bowels)
Etymology
Etymology Information
'aperient' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aperiens', where 'aperire' meant 'to open'.
Historical Evolution
'aperient' changed from Late Latin 'aperiens' (present participle of 'aperire') and entered English via medical/Late Latin usage, eventually becoming the modern English word 'aperient'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'opening' (in the sense of 'opening the bowels'), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a mild laxative'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mild laxative; a gentle purgative used to relieve constipation.
The doctor recommended aperients to relieve constipation.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/15 08:26