tibi
/tiˈbi/
The English word "constipated" is translated into Tagalog as tibi.
tibi is an adjective used to describe being unable to defecate. Although it is an adjective, it is also commonly used as a noun to refer to the condition of constipation itself.
Meaning: unable to defecate (adj)
Which one should you use?
The term nagtitibi is a verbal form used specifically to describe the ongoing state or the process of experiencing constipation, whereas tibi functions as the base adjective or noun.
How does it change in a sentence?
To describe someone who is currently experiencing the condition, you can use the verbal form nagtitibi to indicate the ongoing state.
How do you pronounce it?
/tiˈbi/
Did you know?
- In some rural areas, traditional healers called albularyo use specific massage techniques on the abdomen to cure tibi rather than using pharmacy medications.
- While tibi describes the condition, Filipinos may use the phrase hindi makadumi to describe the act, as dumi literally means 'dirt' but is the standard polite term for stool.
- The root of tibi traces back to Proto-Central Philippine, meaning it is an ancient term that has survived through thousands of years of linguistic evolution in the archipelago.
Examples in context
- Ilang araw ka na bang hindi nakakadumi?How many days have you not been able to move your bowels?
- Uminom ka ng maraming tubig at kumain ng masusustansyang pagkain. Baka kasi may problema sa pagdumi mo.Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. You might have a problem with your bowel movement.
Example conversation
Mark is asking Jasmine how she is feeling at home.
- JasmineTibi ako.I am constipated.
- MarkKumain ka ba ng sapat na gulay?Did you eat enough vegetables?
- JasmineHindi, baka kaya ako tibi.No, maybe that's why I am constipated.
- MarkUminom ka ng maraming tubig.Drink plenty of water.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tibi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tibi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
