noun / adjective

relaxant

rih-LAK-suhnt/rɪˈlæksənt/

Causing relaxation or reducing tension.

The medicine had a relaxant effect on the muscles.

A neutral prescription container beside a relaxed illustrated muscle model, no pills in action or dosage text.

Etymology

reLatinback

+laxLatinto loosen

+antLatinpresent-participle ending

The participial formation describes something doing the loosening. An adjective meaning “causing relaxation” became a noun for a medicine or treatment that eases bodily tension or stiffness.

In context

Body Revival19:17

Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant, helping to ease tension and promote a sense of physical comfort

Drink THIS Before Bed and Wake Up Refreshed — The #1 Sleep Tonic | Body Revival

More examples

A muscle relaxant was listed among the prescribed drugs.
The study compared the compounds' relaxant properties.
The report described the substance as a relaxant.

Forms

relaxant · relaxants

relax verb — become or make less tense

Similar words

sedative: A sedative reduces arousal or agitation; a relaxant may specifically reduce muscle tension.
stimulant: A stimulant increases activity or arousal rather than reducing tension.