cleanse

cleanse

verb \ˈklenz\

cleansedcleans·ing

Definition of CLEANSE

: clean; especially : to rid of impurities by or as if by washing

Examples of CLEANSE

1. The cut should be cleansed gently with mild soap and water.
2. <in an elaborate ritual the priestess cleansed the gathering of supplicants>

Origin of CLEANSE

Middle English clensen, from Old English clǣnsian to purify, from clǣne clean

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to CLEANSE

Synonyms: purify, purge, sanctify

Antonyms: besmirch, dirty, foul, soil, spot, stain, sully

Related Words: amend, improve, refine; heal, regenerate, restore; elevate, ennoble, uplift; absolve, acquit, clear, exonerate, vindicate

Near Antonyms: corrupt, debase, debauch, defile, degrade, demean, deprave, pervert, stain, warp; poison, profane, prostitute; sully, tarnish

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Rhymes with CLEANSE

gens, lens