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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 This week on Married To Medicine, the couples’ Key West getaway kicks off with a relay race that quickly turns into pure chaos. —

Shelby Stewart, Essence, 3 Feb. 2025 That’s the especially effective pure form of vitamin C, beloved by dermatologists for its ability to make skin smoother and more radiant. —

Allure Editors, Allure, 1 Feb. 2025 Our second most-clicked cleaning story of the year focuses on restoring silver jewelry, and the difference between sterling silver and pure silver. —

Katelyn Squiers, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Jan. 2025 This design was first launched in yellow gold with a silver dial, and this configuration remains the purest expression of the asymmetrical concept. —

Blake Buettner, Robb Report, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for pure

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pure

Adjective

As shown by comments from Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Fremont, the potential for a blockbuster bipartisan effort to force change used to be plain.

— U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Feb. 2025
Think subversive and specific rather than plain and flat.

— Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 6 Feb. 2025