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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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

Examples 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 Press Bo’s back against the wall, and Nix becomes pure pass and vinegar. —

Sean Keeler, The Denver Post, 10 Jan. 2025 That the film is resurfacing now is pure coincidence. —

Ben Kenigsberg, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2025 Instead of being aggressive, express every pure and raw emotion. —

Lisa Stardust, refinery29.com, 10 Jan. 2025 Hyer Goods Upcycled Alpaca Wool Chunky Rib Beanie $80 at Nordstrom This hat is made with pure alpaca wool and comes in four neutral, versatile colors: black, off-white, charcoal, and brown. —

Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for pure

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pure

Adjective

Just 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt has about 24 g of protein.

— Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025
Hockey jersey: on sale for $15.65 Original price: $16.99 A plain hockey jersey, like this one from Amazon, easily fits over your padding and is great for practice or everyday wear.

— Christopher Murray, Fox News, 13 Jan. 2025