impurity

noun

im·​pu·​ri·​ty (ˌ)im-ˈpyu̇r-ə-tē 

plural impurities

1

: something that is impure or makes something else impure

removing impurities from water

2

: the quality or state of being impure

Synonyms of impurity

• contamination
• contaminant
• pollutant

Examples of impurity in a Sentence

the impurity of the water

The syrup is strained to remove impurities.

The water is free of impurities.

Recent Examples on the Web

Keeping them stable under those conditions requires precise control over a nickel base alloyed with multiple elements, each with different physical and chemical properties, that must be uniformly melted, fused, and kept free of impurities. —Deena Theresa, Interesting Engineering, 27 May 2026

Apply that same logic to pimple patches, and you’re left with an acne sticker that soothes redness and inflammation, and removes impurities overnight. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 26 May 2026

This can prevent impurities from building up. —Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 May 2026

Oily residue, hard-water deposits, and other impurities build up over time, slowing down the inner workings of your machine and influencing the taste of your coffee. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 22 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for impurity

• maturity
• obscurity
• security
• biosecurity
• cybersecurity
• immaturity
• insecurity
• prematurity
• purity
• surety

Kids Definition

impurity

noun

im·​pu·​ri·​ty (ˈ)im-ˈpyu̇r-ət-ē 

plural impurities

1

: the quality or state of being impure

2

: something that is impure or that makes impure

remove impurities from water

Medical Definition

impurity

noun

im·​pu·​ri·​ty (ˈ)im-ˈpyu̇r-ət-ē 

plural impurities

: something that is impure or makes something else impure