ablution

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the act of washing oneself, especially as part of a regular routine; often plural

   He completed his morning ablutions before breakfast.

2. 2
   noun

   ceremonial washing performed for religious purification or as part of a rite

   The priest performed the prescribed ablution before the ceremony.

From Middle English ablucioun, through Old French ablution from Late Latin ablūtiō ("a washing away"), from abluere ("wash away"), built from ab- ("away") + lavere ("wash"). The general act of washing acquired especially strong ritual and religious associations.

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