1. a substance that makes something dirty or less pure
2. the state or quality of being impure or contaminated
3. moral corruption or lack of virtue
Usage: formal

Examples

• The water filter removes impurities from tap water.
• Chemical analysis revealed several impurities in the metal sample.
• The gold was refined to eliminate any impurities.
• Air pollution introduces harmful impurities into the atmosphere.
• The medicine was recalled due to dangerous impurities found during testing.
• Religious texts often speak of spiritual impurity and the need for cleansing.
• The scientist tested for impurities that might affect the experiment’s results.