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.
In alloys, the impurities act as roadblocks that heat helps the metal overcome. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026 In traditional Chinese medicine, blood is an important part of women’s health as a source of vitality rather than impurity. Megan Bryson, The Conversation, 5 Feb. 2026 Issues include the potential for impurities in the products, possible immune reactions and a lack of safety warnings on labels. Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 31 Jan. 2026 Purity, impurity, and the laws and rituals designed to manage the boundary between them — these are the cornerstone concerns of the Book of Leviticus, the third book of the Old Testament. Natalia Winkelman, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impurity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impurity. Accessed 16 Feb. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on impurity

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!

More from Merriam-Webster