wash one's hands
The phrase "wash one's hands" can be used both literally and figuratively, with origins in biblical symbolism and common hygiene practices.
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Definition
A1Hygiene
To clean one's hands with water and soap to remove dirt or germs.
Example
- It's important to wash your hands before eating.
- After gardening, she went inside to wash her hands.
B2Figurative
(idiomatic)To remove oneself from responsibility or involvement in a situation.
Example
- He decided to wash his hands of the project after the disagreement.
- The manager washed his hands of the issue, leaving the team to deal with it.
B1Polite
(euphemistic)To go to the toilet.
Example
- Excuse me, I need to wash my hands.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "wash one's hands":
hand washwash one's mouth outwash overwash upwash awaywash downhand rubwash outrun handswash leathershake handswashing daywash room