expurgate

Definition

To edit out (incorrect, offensive, or otherwise undesirable information) from a book or other publication; to cleanse; to purge.

Etymology

From Latin expurgātus, perfect passive participle of expurgō (“purge, cleanse, purify”).

Example Sentences

• "The publisher decided to expurgate the love scene from the book, to make it more child-friendly."
• "Yossarian was busy expurgating all but romance words from the letters when the chaplain sat down in a chair between the beds and asked him how he was feeling."
• "The publisher decided to expurgate the book, which meant removing the love scene."

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