ABLU'TION, n. [L. 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.
|