This verb may sound fancy, but it makes sense when you think of the detergent you likely have at home for cleaning dishes or clothes. “Deterge” means “to cleanse thoroughly,” coming from the French verb “déterger,” and the Latin “detergere,” meaning “wipe away.” You won’t hear “deterge” used to describe tidying up or organizing your closet. This type of cleaning is a more intensive cleansing. It can be used to describe a thorough washing using soap or special chemicals, but it might also be used for a more ritualistic cleansing.