/
pəːˈgeɪʃ(ə)n/
n.
   - purification. 
▸(in Catholic doctrine) the spiritual cleansing of a soul in purgatory.
 - historical the action of clearing oneself of accusation or suspicion by an oath or ordeal.
 - evacuation of the bowels brought about by laxatives.
 
Etymology
ME: from OFr. purgacion, from L. purgatio(n-), from purgare (see purge).