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. — n.(Med.) A laxative medicine. See the Note under Cathartic.