ablution

[ uh-bloo-shuhn ]

noun

1. a cleansing with water or other liquid, especially as a religious ritual.
2. the liquid thus used.
3. Usually ablutions. a washing of the hands, body, etc.

ablution

/ əˈbluːʃən /

noun

1. the ritual washing of a priest's hands or of sacred vessels
2. often plural the act of washing (esp in the phrase perform one's ablutions )
3. informal.
   plural military a washing place

Derived Forms

• abˈlutionary, adjective

Other Words From

• ab·lution·ary adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ablution¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin ablūtiōn- (stem of ablūtiō ), equivalent to ablūt ( us ), past participle of abluere ( abluent ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of ablution¹

C14: ultimately from Latin ablūere to wash away

Example Sentences

Keeping the skin clean by daily ablution greatly aids in the escape of fluid during exercise.

From Project Gutenberg

He proceeds to the bathhouse to take his ablution, and thence to the synagogue, leaving the tailor all the while in his pocket.

From Project Gutenberg

Both bury their dead, and purify themselves by ablution in the nearest stream when the funeral procession is over.

From Project Gutenberg

An agreeable and efficient adjunct after ablution, which I have already referred to, is oil.

From Project Gutenberg

He poured it over his head by way of ablution, strove to rise and renew the unequal fight, and sank back feebly.

From Project Gutenberg