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.
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 Facial Cleansing Brushes A gentle facial cleansing brush can remove makeup and impurities more effectively than hands alone. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 8 Apr. 2026 Their bestselling Regenerating Cleanser gently polishes away impurities and dullness to reveal a healthy-looking, radiant glow, clinically proven to make skin look brighter, smoother, more hydrated and pores look smaller. Tory Johnson, ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026 The manufacturing process can also introduce impurities — like bacteria or heavy metals — into peptide drugs. Anjeanette Damon, ProPublica, 3 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

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Cite this Entry

“Impurity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impurity. Accessed 28 Apr. 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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