Definition of irrigatenext
as in to rinse
to pour liquid over or through in order to cleanse if you get the chemical in your eye, irrigate the eye thoroughly with water

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of irrigate Starting Monday, the town says no one is allowed to irrigate, sprinkle or apply water to any outdoor vegetation. — Christa Swanson, CBS News, 14 Sep. 2026 Powder detergents can help irrigate dirt and clay, whereas light-duty detergents are best for cleaning delicates, baby clothes, and other elegant fabrics. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026 In Boise and other parts of the Treasure Valley, some residents irrigate lawns with potable water supplied through public water systems. — Idaho Statesman, 23 Aug. 2026 Water lawns deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly before irrigating again. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irrigate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for irrigate
Verb
  • Apply it for up to three minutes, two to three times a week, then wipe away any excess—no need to rinse.
    — Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
  • After every use, be sure to rinse your pumice stone clean under warm water.
    — BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Tatcha’s creamy cleanser gently washes the day away with an amino acid base, while Okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid deeply nourish the skin and replenish its water reserve.
    — Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026
  • The only thing inspectors want touching handwash sinks is soapy water from hands being washed.
    — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The Turkish bath is equally rejuvenating, with salt scrubs that left me flushed pink and glowing.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026
  • With the score tied early in the second quarter, Miami quarterback Darian Mensah got flushed from the pocket.
    — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Irrigate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/irrigate. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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