# purest

/ˈpjʊɹəst/ (US) · /pjˈʊɹəst/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/purest
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the most clean, perfect, or complete version of something. You use this to describe things that are not mixed with anything else.

For teachers: the superlative form of 'pure'; describes something entirely unmixed, untainted, or representing the most refined essence of a quality. Often used in abstract contexts to indicate absolute integrity or simplicity.

## Examples

- This is the purest water I have ever tasted.
- The scientist needed the purest sample of the element to ensure the experiment's results were accurate.
- Her devotion to the cause was seen as the purest form of altruism, as she sought neither recognition nor reward for her lifelong efforts.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the most purest" but "the purest" — 'Purest' is already a superlative; adding 'most' is a double superlative error.

## Usage notes

- Superlative form of 'pure'; typically follows 'the' and precedes the noun it modifies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.