Definition of irrigatenext
as in to rinse
to pour liquid over or through in order to cleanse if you get the chemical in your eye, irrigate the eye thoroughly with water

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of irrigate Powder detergents can help irrigate dirt and clay, whereas light-duty detergents are best for cleaning delicates, baby clothes, and other elegant fabrics. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026 In Boise and other parts of the Treasure Valley, some residents irrigate lawns with potable water supplied through public water systems. — Idaho Statesman, 23 Aug. 2026 The Colorado River is a lifeline for the Southwest, providing water to around 40 million people and irrigating more than 5 million acres of farmland. — Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026 Water lawns deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly before irrigating again. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irrigate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for irrigate
Verb
  • Squeeze some toothpaste on, scrub around for a couple minutes, rinse and get on with your day.
    — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Leading off the bathroom is a small brick courtyard and an outdoor shower, ideal to rinse off after a dip in your pool, but not private enough to take the place of the indoor one.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • How many Japanese women wash their face and hands in the morning with coconut soap?
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Anyone who comes into contact with the bait’s liquid vaccine should thoroughly wash their hands using soap and water, then call the phone number listed on the bait or their local health department for further instructions and referral.
    — Eva Flowe October 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Saliva constantly flushes food debris and buffers acid, so chronic dryness tilts the environment toward decay.
    — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Staying hydrated keeps the mouth moist and flushes away debris and bacteria.
    — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 5 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Irrigate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/irrigate. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!