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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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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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 Brides were expected, in most cultures at various points in history, to be virginal, pure and dedicated to their husbands. —

Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 23 May 2026 These muted in-between tones promote quiet contentment, versus the excitement stirred by pure red or yellow. —

Petra Guglielmetti, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 May 2026 Its high-contrast CrystGlow HVA panel reduces light reflections, while up to 2,800 precise dimming zones deliver pure ink blacks alongside an intense HDR 2600 nits of peak brightness. —

Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 22 May 2026 The guy was a racer in the purest form. —

Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for pure

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pure

Adjective

Lorden will have toppings and flavors including sesame, salt, plain, cheddar jalapeño and blueberry cinnamon.

— Max Scheinblum, Denver Post, 26 May 2026
The presidential gallery gives us white men in plain dark suits pretty much all the way down.

— Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 26 May 2026