ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cleansing

n. · adj.
US //ˈkɫɛnzɪŋ// UK //klˈɛnzɪŋ// cleans·ing
  1. 1 cleaning the skin (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    the process of cleaning your skin thoroughly, especially your face.

    the act of removing dirt, oil, and cosmetics from the skin, typically as part of a dermatological routine.

    Example

    A deep cleansing of your face before bed helps prevent skin problems.

    Example

    The dermatologist recommended a gentle daily cleansing to remove environmental pollutants without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
  2. 2 removing bad things (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of getting rid of something unwanted or bad from a place or group.

    the removal of undesirable elements, people, or influences from a specific environment or organisation.

    Example

    The new manager began a cleansing of the department to remove lazy workers.

    Example

    The political party underwent a thorough cleansing of its ranks following the corruption scandal that nearly destroyed its reputation.
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  1. 3 having a cleaning effect (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describing something that makes you or a place clean.

    possessing the quality or power to clean or purify.

    Example

    She used a cleansing cream to wash away her heavy stage makeup.

    Example

    The ritual involved a cleansing fire, which the participants believed would burn away the misfortunes of the previous year.

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