PURE Synonyms: 227 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'pure' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of pure are chaste , decent , and modest . While all these words mean "free from all taint of what is lewd or salacious," pure differs from chaste in implying innocence and absence of temptation rather than control of one's impulses and actions. // the pure of heart

Q: In what contexts can 'chaste' take the place of 'pure'?

Although the words chaste and pure have much in common, chaste primarily implies a refraining from acts or even thoughts or desires that are not virginal or not sanctioned by marriage vows. // they maintained chaste relations

Q: How are the words 'modest' and 'decent' related as synonyms of 'pure'?

Both modest and decent apply especially to deportment and dress as outward signs of inward chastity or purity. // preferred more modest swimsuits // decent people didn't go to such movies

pure

adjective

ˈpyu̇r

Definition of pure next

as in plain

free from added matter There is a big difference between pure maple syrup and pancake syrup made with other ingredients. the solution must be kept pure for the experiment to work

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as in immaculate

free from any trace of the coarse or indecent the humor in the movie is as pure and wholesome as any parent could wish

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as in innocent

free from sin in one beatitude those who are pure in heart are promised the sight of God

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as in sheer

having no exceptions or restrictions that story is pure nonsense

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word pure distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of pure are chaste, decent, and modest. While all these words mean "free from all taint of what is lewd or salacious," pure differs from chaste in implying innocence and absence of temptation rather than control of one's impulses and actions.

the pure of heart

In what contexts can chaste take the place of pure?

Although the words chaste and pure have much in common, chaste primarily implies a refraining from acts or even thoughts or desires that are not virginal or not sanctioned by marriage vows.

they maintained chaste relations

How are the words modest and decent related as synonyms of pure?

Both modest and decent apply especially to deportment and dress as outward signs of inward chastity or purity.

preferred more modest swimsuits

decent people didn't go to such movies

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of pure Anand insisted on raw milk as the source for his cheeses, as that delivers the purest, truest flavor. —

Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 13 Mar. 2026 The pure honesty and complexity of this character makes the reader feel that much closer to her. —

Literary Hub, 12 Mar. 2026 The host’s pure masterstroke of Survivor weirdness, however, came not on the island but in the studio. —

Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026 The 48-volt mild-hybrid system makes the powertrain feel seamless in a way that pure combustion no longer can. —

Sean Evans, Robb Report, 12 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pure

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pure

Adjective

If a conversation thread gets confusing, rewrite the key points in plain language.

— Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 17 Mar. 2026
To quench your thirst, sip water or plain fizzy water.

— Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 16 Mar. 2026