De*terge" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Deterged (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Deterging.] [L. detergere, detersum; de + tergere to rub or wipe off: cf. F. d'eterger.]
To cleanse; to purge away, as foul or offending matter from the body, or from an ulcer.
© Webster 1913.