1. to cleanse thoroughly; to remove dirt, impurities, or unwanted matter
Usage: formal; medical

Examples

• The antiseptic solution deterges the wound effectively.
• This soap deterges better than ordinary cleansers.
• The nurse deterges the patient’s skin before surgery.
• The detergent deterges grease from dishes.
• Medical professionals must deterge instruments between uses.
• The cleaning agent deterges bacteria from surfaces.