Purge: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when clearing out unwanted elements, often with a sense of thoroughness and sometimes a negative connotation. Frequently associated with removing harmful or unnecessary items in a dramatic or forceful way.

• The organization decided to purge all outdated employee records from the database.
• He needed to purge his computer of all viruses and malware.

Often used when referring to the removal of something completely, especially in strategic or planning settings. Can be negative depending on the context.

• The company aims to eliminate inefficiencies in their production process.
• He was eliminated from the competition in the first round.

A neutral term suitable for describing the act of taking something away or off, in various contexts from everyday tasks to technical processes.

• Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
• We need to remove the outdated software from the system.

Commonly used to indicate the act of getting free from something undesirable, often implying relief or improvement.

• She wants to rid her yard of weeds.
• They worked hard to rid the community of crime.

Used in everyday contexts to describe the act of emptying a space or removing clutter, usually in a simple and straightforward manner.

• I need to clear out the garage this weekend.
• They cleared out all the old files from the office.

The same as the first entry.

Refers to forcefully removing someone or something from an organization, institution, or location, often with a strong sense of rejection. It usually has a negative connotation.

• The school announced the expulsion of several students for misconduct.
• The diplomat faced expulsion from the country due to political tensions.

Used when referring to a process of cleaning or removing impurities, commonly used in a health or spiritual context. It has a more positive connotation.

• A facial cleansing routine can improve skin health.
• The ritual is meant to be a spiritual cleansing for the participants.

Often used in a ceremonial, religious, or scientific context to describe the process of making something pure by removing any contaminants or impurities. It generally has a positive connotation.

• The water purification process ensures safe drinking water.
• The priest performed a purification ritual before the ceremony.