noun

purist

PYOOR-rihst

Purist (noun) means someone who insists on strict adherence to traditional rules, standards, or forms. Example: “Grammar purists insist on never splitting an infinitive.”

noun

Someone who insists on strict adherence to traditional rules, standards, or forms.

"Grammar purists insist on never splitting an infinitive."

"A coffee purist would never add flavored syrup."

How to use purist

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA stickler for doing things the "correct" or traditional way, without shortcuts or compromises.

Common pairings

language purist a purist approach design purist

Word forms

more purist comparative, purists plural, most purist superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Grammar _____ insist on never splitting an infinitive.

Etymology

Borrowed from French puriste, formed from pur(e) ("pure") plus the suffix -ist.

Origin: French

Rhymes for purist

tourist manicurist

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Frequently asked questions

What does “purist” mean?

The word “purist” means someone who insists on strict adherence to traditional rules, standards, or forms. In plain terms, a stickler for doing things the "correct" or traditional way, without shortcuts or compromises.

How do you pronounce “purist”?

“Purist” is pronounced PYOOR-rihst (/ˈpjʊɹ.ɪst/ in IPA).

How do you use “purist” in a sentence?

Here is “purist” used in a sentence: “Grammar purists insist on never splitting an infinitive.”

What part of speech is “purist”?

“Purist” is a noun.

Where does the word “purist” come from?

The word “purist” comes from French. Borrowed from French puriste, formed from pur(e) ("pure") plus the suffix -ist.