# purification

/ˌpjʊɹəfəˈkeɪʃən/ (US) · /pjˌʊɹɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

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

## Definition

the process of removing dirty or harmful things from something to make it clean and pure.

For teachers: the removal of contaminants or impurities from a substance or environment. Often describes chemical, industrial, or spiritual processes.

## Examples

- The city needs a new water purification system.
- The purification of the local river took several years of strict environmental regulation and community effort.
- Advanced filtration techniques allow for the purification of industrial wastewater to a degree that it can be safely reintroduced into the local ecosystem without harming aquatic life.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to a specific instance or method.

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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.