hydragogue

[hahy-druh-gawg, -gog]

adjective

1. causing the discharge of watery fluid, as from the bowels.

noun

1. Pharmacology.,  Also hydragog a hydragogue agent.

hydragogue

/ ˈhaɪdrəˌɡɒɡ /

noun

1. med any purgative that causes evacuation of water from the bowels

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydragogue¹

1630–40; < Latin hydragōgus < Greek hydragōgós water-conveying, equivalent to hydr- hydr- ¹ + agōgós leading, guiding ( -agogue )

Example Sentences

Cathartics, especially those of a hydragogue nature, are also very beneficial.

From Project Gutenberg

First in point of efficacy for this purpose are the hydragogue cathartics.

From Project Gutenberg

It is characteristic of this purgative that it is a hydragogue even in minimal dose, the fluid secretions of the bowel being most markedly increased.

From Project Gutenberg

Hydragogue, hī′dra-gōg, n. a very active purgative, such as jalap.

From Project Gutenberg

In medicine it is frequently employed as a hydragogue purgative, specially valuable in febrile diseases, in congestion of the portal system, and in the obstinate constipation of painters’ colic.

From Project Gutenberg