Impure

/ɪmˈpjʊər/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Not pure; mixed with foreign matter; unclean.
The water was deemed impure due to the high levels of pollutants.
Morally or spiritually contaminated; not innocent.
He struggled with feelings of impure thoughts that clouded his judgment.
Not having a clean or unblemished quality; blemished.
The jewel was classified as impure because of the visible inclusions.

Etymology

From Latin 'impurus', meaning 'not pure'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

impure thoughts
Thoughts considered morally wrong or improper.
impure motives
Motives that are selfish or dishonest.
impure substances
Substances that are not pure or have foreign elements.

Related Words

purity
The state of being pure; freedom from contamination.
purify
To make pure by removing impurities.
impurity
The quality of being impure.

Slang Meanings

Impure pleasure
She indulged in impure pleasures during the weekend party.
Dirty thoughts
He was joking about having impure thoughts.