Cleanse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cleanse

[klษ›ns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

body detox

To rid of impurities by or as if by washing.

Synonyms

detoxify, flush out, purify.

Examples of usage

  • He cleansed his body with a juice cleanse.
  • The cleanse helped reset his digestive system.
Context #2 | Verb

emotional healing

To rid of guilt or sin by or as if by a spiritual process.

Synonyms

clear, purge, purify.

Examples of usage

  • She cleansed her soul through meditation.
  • The therapy session helped cleanse his emotions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health and Wellness

  • In a holistic context, cleansing often refers to diets or practices aimed at detoxifying the body.
  • Many cultures have rituals that involve cleansing, such as the Japanese practice of misogi, which incorporates water purification.

Cultural Practices

  • Cleaning rituals can be found in many religions, such as the Islamic practice of Wudu, which is a form of ritual washing before prayers.
  • In ancient cultures, cleansing was often associated with spiritual renewal, emphasizing the link between physical and spiritual cleanliness.

Psychology

  • Cleansing can also refer metaphorically to clearing the mind, such as through meditation or mindfulness practices.
  • Psychological cleansing is often used in therapy to help individuals let go of negative thoughts or past traumas.

Pop Culture

  • Cleansing diets have been popularized in modern media, with various celebrities endorsing detox drinks and cleanses.
  • In movies and literature, a cleansing often symbolizes a fresh start or rebirth for a character.

Origin of 'cleanse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'clวฃnsian', which means 'to make clean'.
  • Related terms in other languages show a common theme of purification; for example, Latin 'purificare' means 'to make pure'.

The word 'cleanse' originates from the Old French word 'clenser', which means 'to cleanse'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of cleansing is deeply rooted in various cultures and traditions, symbolizing purification and renewal.


See also: clean, cleaner, cleaning, cleanliness, cleanness, cleanser, cleansing, cleanup, unclean, uncleanly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,307, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.