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

Synonyms of impurity

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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.
Ice•ology trays use a slow-freezing process designed to separate impurities and air bubbles from the ice, creating crystal-clear cubes that elevate cocktails, mocktails and everyday beverages. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 At that depth, fewer air bubbles and impurities would interfere with measurements. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2026 For the collection, the mill applies a special cleaning process to cotton that removes 80 percent of impurities. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 21 Oct. 2026 This shampoo also has hydrolyzed keratin to smooth hair and boost shine, while chelating agents will remove those hard water impurities to keep hair feeling and looking healthy. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 21 Oct. 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

Rhymes for impurity

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Browse Nearby Words

impuritan
impurity
impurple
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Cite this Entry

“Impurity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impurity. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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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