a. Obs. [f. L. ters-, ppl. stem of tergēre, -ĕre (see prec.) + -IVE.] Having power to cleanse as by wiping; detersive; detergent.
1665–6. Phil. Trans., I. 359. For the Eye-waters, I conceived them more strongly tersive, and clearing the Eyes.
1677. Plot, Oxfordsh., 49. Such a pleasant titillation, as invites the Patient to rub on the tersive water.
