detox

noun

de·​tox ˈdē-ˌtäks How to pronounce detox (audio)
di-ˈtäks
often attributive
1
: detoxification from an intoxicating or addictive substance
a detox clinic
2
: a program or facility for assisting a person undergoing detoxification from an intoxicating or addictive substance
spent one week in detox
3
: a regimen or treatment intended to remove toxins and impurities from the body
A well-designed detox can help purge your liver, colon, and kidneys of toxins; clear your skin; boost your energy; and help you safely shed pounds.Lisa Turner
detox verb

Examples of detox in a Sentence

He spent one week in detox. The famous writer recently went into detox. She has been through two detoxes in the past year.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The clarity that comes from a digital detox can fuel creativity in ways that continuous digital engagement cannot. Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024 This mud sheet mask is a detox for the skin and removes toxins and dirt while brightening your complexion. Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 30 Sep. 2024 These are her tips for a seven-day coffee detox: Adapt the schedule to your individual needs. Jana Ackermann, Glamour, 7 Oct. 2024 The Role of Nature in Recharging Creativity One of the most popular forms of digital detox for entrepreneurs involves spending time in nature. Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for detox 

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of detox was in 1973

Dictionary Entries Near detox

Cite this Entry

“Detox.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detox. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

detox

1 of 2 noun
de·​tox (ˈ)dē-ˈtäks How to pronounce detox (audio)
1
a
: detoxification from an intoxicating or addictive substance
a unit providing detox for adolescents
often used before another noun
a detox clinic
b
: a detox program or facility
There are city officials who are scrambling to see if they can extend the average stays in a detox.Peter Gelzinis, The Boston Herald
2
: a regimen or treatment to remove toxins and impurities from the body
A well-designed detox can help purge your liver, colon, and kidneys of toxins; clear your skin; boost your energy; and help you safely shed pounds.Lisa Turner, Better Nutrition

detox

2 of 2 intransitive verb
: to subject oneself to or to undergo detoxification : detoxify
Safely detoxing requires a 10- to 15-day hospital stay, medical experts say.Luke Cyphers, ESPN

transitive verb

: to remove a harmful or intoxicating substance from (someone or something) : detoxify
Most heroin addicts have been detoxed hundreds of times.Susan Reed, People Weekly
also : to remove impurities from
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C as well as phytonutrients, compounds that naturally detox the body. Redbook
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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