What term refers to the act of washing or cleansing, especially of the body?

The term that refers to the act of washing or cleansing, especially of the body, is "ablution." This word specifically denotes the ritual washing of the body in various religious or spiritual contexts, although it can also refer to general cleansing practices. Ablution emphasizes the physical act of washing as a significant ritual, often associated with purification before entering places of worship or engaging in sacred activities.

Detoxification refers to the process of removing toxins from the body, often related to health or wellness practices rather than the general act of washing. Cleansing is a broader term that can refer to various types of cleaning processes, including both physical and metaphorical meanings. Purification often involves a more spiritual or moral aspect, indicating the removal of impurities or corruptions, and may not strictly pertain to physical washing.

Understanding these distinctions clarifies why "ablution" is the most accurate term in the context of body cleansing.