vulgar purgation

noun

: purgation by combat or by ordeal by fire or water compare canonical purgation

Word History

Etymology

so called from its not having been sanctioned by the church

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!