purism

noun

pur·​ism ˈpyu̇r-ˌi-zəm 

1

: an example of rigid adherence to or insistence on purity or nicety especially in use of words

especially : a word, phrase, or sense used chiefly by purists

2

: the quality or practice of adherence to purity especially in language

Examples of purism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The dogs at 85 West Bar, an homage to the 1985 Chicago Bears and their Super Bowl victory, are lean, indulgent and beer‑friendly, designed for sharing during games, trivia or late nights rather than strict purism. — Usa Today Network, USA Today, 15 July 2026

The record marks the point where the singer’s disco purism tips over into outright literalism. — Harry Tafoya, Pitchfork, 20 Apr. 2026

The charming scenery of the French countryside that had so enchanted White and Saint-Gaudens tested Wells’s purism. — Henry Wiencek july 22, Literary Hub, 22 July 2025

Plus, purism aside, there isn’t much of a difference between natural and man-made diamonds. — Alena Botros, Fortune, 2 Dec. 2024

Yet the purism that tends to drive the small-government view of the world also has a way of obscuring its vision. — Bret Stephens, Foreign Affairs, 5 Feb. 2013

Word History

First Known Use

1777, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for purism

• voyeurism

Kids Definition

purism

noun

pur·​ism ˈpyu̇(ə)r-ˌiz-əm 

: a strict following of what is considered absolutely correct especially in the use of words

purist

-əst

noun