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