Detersively

/dɪˈtɜrsɪvli/ adverb

Definition

In a manner that cleanses or washes away; with cleansing or purifying action.

Etymology

From 'detersive' (having cleansing quality) plus the adverb suffix '-ly.' Rare and archaic.

Kelly Says

When historical doctors describe treating a wound 'detersively,' they meant scrubbing it thoroughly—a painful but necessary process before antibiotics existed!

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