Can I delete a file from being shown in the 'recents' area of the Files iOS app? I am trying to remove some files out of the 'recents' view of the files iOS app without actually deleting the file. 

My 'recents' list is currently too long, for this view to be of any help for me at this point. Ideally, I can curate individual items that aren't relevant and keep the rest of the list, but if needed - can I just purge all recents and start cleanly?
No - you can't edit or suppress one item - just open new files and the one that's current will be less recent.
Yes - You can wipe all the items and start fresh.


Open the Files app. Go to Browse tab. You'll get a list of the Locations you've authorized Files to access: iCloud, Google, etc. Your Recents tab displays recently viewed files from any authorized drive - not just iCloud.

Tap the three dots "..." in the upper right hand corner of the screen and select "Edit" from the popup menu that will appear.  To clear the Recents view for any drive turn access off by tapping the Green Button. This clears the Recents view. You can then turn access back on by tapping the button again.  A little kluggy but it works.