/
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).
