wash away

phrasal verb

washed away; washing away; washes away
1
: to carry (something) away by the movement of water
The bridge was washed away by flooding last year.
2
: to get rid of (something, such as unhappy or unpleasant thoughts) completely
Take a vacation to wash away your troubles.

Examples of wash away in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Clean your patio by removing debris, sweeping, and washing away pollen. Kara McGinley, USA Today, 17 Apr. 2025 Showering in the evening also helps wash away any allergens in hair or on skin before bed. Sarah Cottone, Health, 16 Apr. 2025 The splashing of water is a sign of respect and well-wishing, as revelers hope to wash away sins and bad luck. Alan Taylor, The Atlantic, 16 Apr. 2025 Marking the start of the solar calendar, it’s known for its anything-goes water festivities: Participants armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses splash each other in a symbolic cleansing of sins and washing away of misfortunes that allow a fresh start in the new year. Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wash away

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Cite this Entry

“Wash away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wash%20away. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

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