ablution

ABLU'TION, noun [Latin ablutio, from ab and luo or lavo to wash.] 1. In a general sense, the act of washing; a cleansing or purification by water. 2. Appropriately, the washing of the body as a preparation for religious duties, enjoined by Moses and still practiced in many countries. 3. In chimistry, the purification of bodies by the affusion of a proper liquor, as water to dissolve salts. 4. In medicine, the washing of the body externally as by baths; or internally, by diluting fluids. 5. Pope has used ablution for the water used in cleansing. 6. The cup given to the laity without consecration, in popish churches.