'constipation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'constipatio' (from the verb 'constipare'), where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'stipare' meant 'to pack' or 'to crowd'.

'constipation' changed from Medieval Latin/Old French forms such as 'constipatio' and Old French 'constipation' and eventually became the modern English word 'constipation' through Middle English usage.

Initially, it meant 'a pressing together' or 'crowding'; over time the sense narrowed in medical contexts to mean 'difficulty in passing stools' (the modern primary meaning).