cleanse

verb

ˈklenz How to pronounce cleanse (audio)
Definition of cleansenext
1
as in to purge
to free from moral guilt or blemish especially ceremonially in an elaborate ritual the priestess cleansed the gathering of supplicants

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to clean
to remove the dirt from cleanse the wound with soap and water before applying the bandage

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 cleanse For best results, use in the morning and night after cleansing and applying toner, then seal it in with your go-to moisturizer. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026 The idea is to cleanse the body from toxicity and renew your cells. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026 The best shampoos cleanse your scalp and hair from roots to ends, freeing it from buildup and gunk without stripping the scalp of natural and vital oils. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 16 Aug. 2026 But if your goal is to thoroughly cleanse your skin, lukewarm water is usually the better choice. — Sherri Gordon, HEALTH, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cleanse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cleanse
  1. purge
  2. clean
Verb
  • Similar to purging in home organizing, Keen says to look for images that spark joy, like Marie Kondo-style decluttering.
    — Staff Author, Southern Living, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Black and female military officers have been purged or denied promotion.
    — Charles Finch, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of purge
Verb
  • Hand soap is meant for clearing surface dirt, cleaning expert Andy Wray says.
    — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Whole cobs of corn are cleaned of their silk, tucked back into their husks, and placed on the grill to char.
    — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of clean

Browse Nearby Words

cleans
cleanse
cleansed
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Cite this Entry

“Cleanse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cleanse. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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