impure
Impure (adjective) means Mixed with substances that shouldn't be there; not clean or refined. Example: “The water from the well was impure and had to be boiled before drinking.”
How to use impure
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot pure — either physically contaminated or morally tainted.
Word forms
more impure comparative, impured past tense, impures singular, most impure superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The water from the well was _____ and had to be boiled before drinking.
Etymology
From Middle French impur, from Latin impūrus.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for impure
See all rhymes for impure →Frequently asked questions
What does “impure” mean?
The word “impure” means mixed with substances that shouldn't be there; not clean or refined. In plain terms, not pure — either physically contaminated or morally tainted.
How do you pronounce “impure”?
“Impure” is pronounced ihm-PYOOR (/ɪmˈpjʊə(ɹ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “impure” in a sentence?
Here is “impure” used in a sentence: “The water from the well was impure and had to be boiled before drinking.”
What is another word for “impure”?
Words with a similar meaning to “impure” include imperfect and tainted.
What is the opposite of “impure”?
The opposite of “impure” — its antonyms — are pure and raw.
What part of speech is “impure”?
“Impure” is an adjective.
Where does the word “impure” come from?
The word “impure” comes from Latin. From Middle French impur, from Latin impūrus.
How many meanings does “impure” have?
“Impure” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: mixed with substances that shouldn't be there; not clean or refined.