APERIENT Meaning and
Definition
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An "aperient" is a term often used in the medical field to describe a substance or medication that has a mild laxative effect, promoting bowel movements and relieving constipation. It is derived from the Latin word "aperiens," which means "opening."
As a laxative, an aperient acts by loosening the stool, facilitating its passage through the gastrointestinal tract, and inducing bowel movements. This type of substance is not as strong as cathartics or purgatives, but it can effectively relieve minor cases of constipation, particularly in individuals seeking gentler relief.
Aperients typically work by increasing the amount of water in the intestines, softening the stool and stimulating peristalsis – the rhythmic contractions of the gastrointestinal muscles that move waste materials through the intestines. They may also stimulate the secretion of digestive juices, enhancing the overall function of the digestive system.
Aperients can be found in various forms, including oral medications, capsules, tablets, powders, and even certain foods. Their action usually takes effect within a few hours or up to a day after consumption, depending on the individual and the specific substance or medication used.
It is important to note that aperients should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Overuse or long-term dependency on aperients may lead to electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, or dependency on laxatives for normal bowel movement. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a medical professional or pharmacist before using any aperient and to carefully adhere to recommended dosages and usage guidelines.
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1. Slightly cathartic. 2. A laxative or mild cathartic.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• A medicine that opens the bowels; a laxative.
• Opening; gently purgative.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for APERIENT
- zperient
- sperient
- wperient
- qperient
- aoerient
- alerient
- a-erient
- a0erient
- apwrient
- apsrient
- apdrient
- aprrient
- ap4rient
- ap3rient
- apeeient
- apedient
- apefient
- apetient
- ape5ient
Etymology of APERIENT
The word "aperient" derives from the Latin "aperire", which means "to open" or "to make free". This Latin verb is related to the Latin noun "aperiens", which means "that which opens". The term "aperient" was adopted into Middle English around the 14th century, referring to substances that induce bowel movement or facilitate the elimination of waste from the body. Its modern usage as a medical term remains unchanged.
Similar spelling words for APERIENT
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