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Definitions

purge

[purj] / pɜrdʒ /
NOUN
elimination, removal
Synonyms
STRONGEST
coup evacuation expulsion extermination liquidation suppression
STRONG
abolition catharsis clarification cleaning cleanup crushing disposal disposition ejection eradication excretion expurgation extirpation murder purification
WEAK
abstersion reign of terror witch hunt
Antonyms
STRONG
dirtying
WEAK
holding keeping maintenance
VERB
rid of; clean out
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abolish absolve cleanse dismiss eradicate erase exonerate expel expunge exterminate forgive liquidate oust prevent remove wipe out
STRONG
clarify clear disabuse eject excrete expiate kill pardon purify unload wash
WEAK
depurate dispose of do away with rout out shake out sweep out wipe off map
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accuse aid allow assist bear blame build charge condemn construct create establish fix help hold incriminate institute keep plant punish sentence welcome
STRONG
dirty
WEAK
maintain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After this experiment, I’ll purge any health-related memories and conversations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

There were also calls to purge Chavez’s name from buildings, streets and other features.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

Maese appears to have survived the purge, at least so far; he’s in Milan right now covering the Olympics.

From Salon • Feb. 22, 2026

That uncertainty was reflected in Hong Kong media's recent coverage of the purge at the top of China's People Liberation Army, according to Chan.

From Barron's • Feb. 11, 2026

Elnora and I ministered to her with the juice of bitter roots and crushed flowers to purge her foul humors and ease the pains in her head.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

Vocabulary lists containing purge

"Beowulf," Vocabulary from the epic poem

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from all 4 Acts

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"Macbeth" Vocabulary from Act III

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!