impurity

noun

im·​pu·​ri·​ty (ˌ)im-ˈpyu̇r-ə-tē How to pronounce impurity (audio)
plural impurities
Synonyms of impuritynext
1
: something that is impure or makes something else impure
removing impurities from water
2
: the quality or state of being impure

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This assortment includes the Detox Pads, which gently remove all traces of makeup and impurities from the day and deep clean skin without stripping. Tory Johnson, ABC News, 28 Apr. 2026 The liquid is then pushed through multiple filtration beds that remove the remaining organic and inorganic impurities. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026 The milky, gentle formula lifts away impurities without irritation, leaving hair feeling more conditioned than with a typical scalp shampoo. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 27 Apr. 2026 Devotees love how the aluminum walls and constant but surprisingly not-too-loud ventilation keep the air inside fresh, as does a charcoal filter designed to absorb airborne impurities that can creep into bottles through their corks or caps. Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for impurity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of impurity was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impurity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impurity. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

impurity

noun
im·​pu·​ri·​ty (ˈ)im-ˈpyu̇r-ət-ē How to pronounce impurity (audio)
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 How to pronounce impurity (audio)
plural impurities
: something that is impure or makes something else impure

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