Meaning & Definition of word "Purge"

Purge

/pɜrdʒ/

noun:

  • 1. The act of removing or getting rid of something undesirable.
    • Example: The purge of unnecessary files from the computer made it run faster.
  • 2. An event or period during which something is removed or cleansed.
    • Example: The company underwent a purge of its staff to improve efficiency.

verb:

  • 1. To remove or eliminate something unwanted or undesirable.
    • Example: The committee decided to purge outdated regulations from the policy manual.
  • 2. To clear or cleanse a system of impurities or toxins.
    • Example: After her illness, the doctor recommended a detox program to purge her body of toxins.
  • 3. To emotionally or mentally release pent-up feelings.
    • Example: He found it helpful to purge his feelings by writing them down in a journal.

Etymology

Middle English 'purgen', from Latin 'purgare', meaning 'to cleanse'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

purge oneself:

To rid oneself of unwanted feelings or thoughts.

purge the system:

To remove unnecessary or problematic elements from a system.

purge the files:

To delete unneeded files or documents.

Related Words

cleansing:

The act of making something pure by removing contaminants.

elimination:

The act of removing or getting rid of something.

expulsion:

The action of forcing someone to leave a place.

Slang Meanings of purge

Meaning: To throw away or get rid of unnecessary items, often used in the context of decluttering.

Example Sentence: I need to purge my closet of all the clothes I never wear.

Meaning: To go on a binge of cleaning or organizing.

Example Sentence: She had a purge weekend and cleared out her entire garage.