cleanses; cleansed; cleansing
: to make (someone or something) clean
The cut should be cleansed gently with mild soap and water.
cleansed of all impurities
Usage Discussion of cleanse
The verbs clean and cleanse both mean "to make (something or someone) clean." Cleanse usually refers to making the body or part of the body clean.
cleansing the skin
The herb is believed to cleanse the body of toxins.
It can also refer to making a person's mind, soul, reputation, etc., clean.
The ceremony is meant to cleanse people of their guilt and sin.
Try to cleanse your mind through meditation.
Clean is more common than cleanse and its use is less specific.
Cite this Entry
“Cleanse.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/cleanse. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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