Pure

Definition

The term "pure" describes something that is free from contamination, imperfections, or mixture, or refers to moral or spiritual cleanliness.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pjʊr/
• Respelling: pyoor

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pjʊə/
• Respelling: pyoo-uh

Etymology

The word "pure" originates from the Latin "purus," meaning "clean" or "unmixed." It entered Old French as "pur" before being adopted into Middle English in the 13th century.

Derivatives

• Purity (noun)
• Purify (verb)
• Purist (noun)
• Impure (adjective)
• Purification (noun)

Synonyms

• Clean
• Unmixed
• Chaste

Antonyms

• Impure
• Contaminated
• Corrupt

Usage

The term "pure" is widely used in contexts related to physical cleanliness, moral integrity, and scientific or chemical standards. For example, "The water is pure and safe to drink," or "Her intentions were pure and selfless."

Related Terms

• Clean: Free from dirt, marks, or stains.
• Simple: Not mixed or complicated; free of extraneous elements.
• Refined: Having impurities removed; cultured or elegant.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Free from contamination, impurities, or anything extraneous:
  • Example: "The scientist required pure chemicals for the experiment."
• Morally or spiritually clean; free from sin or corruption:
  • Example: "Her thoughts were pure and virtuous."
• Complete or absolute in degree:
  • Example: "The orchestra played with pure harmony."