To cleanse means to clean something thoroughly, removing dirt, impurities, or unwanted substances. When you cleanse your hands with soap and water, you're washing away germs and grime. When doctors cleanse a wound before bandaging it, they're removing bacteria that could cause infection.

The word suggests a deeper, more complete cleaning than just a quick rinse. You might wash your face in the morning, but a facial cleanser is designed to really cleanse your pores. Ancient peoples would cleanse their temples and sacred spaces as part of religious ceremonies, making them pure and ready for worship.

People also use cleanse in non-physical ways. Someone might want to cleanse their mind of negative thoughts, or cleanse their schedule of activities that waste time. A palate cleanser between courses at a fancy meal helps reset your taste buds so you can fully enjoy the next dish.

The related word cleansing can describe the act of cleaning, like a cleansing rain that washes pollen off cars and leaves. To feel cleansed means to feel refreshed and purified, like stepping out of a hot shower after a long day of yard work.