[f. as prec. + -ING2.] That cleanses: see the vb.
a. 1300. Cursor M., 26201. Penance thol in clenssing fire.
a. 1387. Sinon. Barthol. (Anecd. Oxon.), 15. Centum capita, affodillus, clansing gresse.
1398. Trevisa, Barth. De P. R., XIX. lxvi. (1495), 902. Whey … is moost drienge and clensynge.
1671. Milton, Samson, 1727. With … cleansing herbs wash off the clotted gore.
1758. J. S., Le Dran’s Observ. Surg. (1771), Dict. B b, Abstergentia … cleansing Medicines.
1858. Adelaide A. Procter, Leg. & Lyrics (title), Cleansing Fires.
