purification

noun

pu·​ri·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌpyu̇r-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce purification (audio)
: the act or an instance of purifying or of being purified

Examples of purification in a Sentence

some people must undergo a ritual purification after certain activities
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.
Many also smear volcanic clay on their faces and bodies, a ritual of purification and spiritual resolve. Zia Ur-Rehman Asim Hafeez, New York Times, 30 May 2025 But in the lab, those cells go through an intense purification process to ensure no human DNA is transferred into vaccines. Erika Edwards, NBC news, 23 May 2025 As of April 8, UNICEF and partners have delivered water purification chemicals to meet the needs of over 305,000 people for the next 30 days. Sarah Ferguson, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025 These purification tablets can help make the water safe to drink and are a must-have for every hiker. Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for purification

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of purification was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Purification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purification. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on purification

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!