purity

noun

pu·​ri·​ty ˈpyu̇r-ə-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being pure

2

: saturation sense 4a

Synonyms

• innocence
• goodness
• virtue

Examples of purity in a Sentence

struggling to live a life of purity while surrounded by wickedness

Recent Examples on the Web

Iranian leaders announced that the country would start enriching uranium to 60 percent purity. —Vali Nasr, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2025

The minister’s renown was not insignificant, with both proponents and those less keen about his ideas of achieving moral purity through food. —Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 Aug. 2025

Because of its unique purity rating as well as its clarity and symmetry, there is only a 0.01% chance of finding another like it, officials said. —Melina Khan, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2025

There is lovely fruit purity, excellent varietal character, vibrant acidity and a juicy, lush finish with pronounced sapidity. —Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English purete, from Anglo-French purité, from Late Latin puritat-, puritas, from Latin purus pure

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for purity

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

Kids Definition

purity

noun

pu·​ri·​ty ˈpyu̇r-ət-ē 

1

: the quality or state of being pure : freedom from impurities

2

: freedom from guilt or sin

Medical Definition

purity

noun

pu·​ri·​ty ˈpyu̇r-ət-ē 

: the quality or state of being pure