Definition of purge

The word "purge" has its roots in the Middle English word "purgyn," which meant "to cleanse" or "to make pure." This term was derived from the Old French word "pourgre," which also implied a process of cleansing or purifying. At its basic level, the term "purge" has always referred to the act of removing something unpleasant or impure from a substance or object. In medieval times, it was commonly used to describe the process of cleansing the body of toxins or impurities through fasting, purgatives, or other medical remedies. Over time, the meaning of the word "purge" evolved to include politically charged connotations, such as the idea of eliminating perceived threats or enemies from political or social domains. In its modern context, "purge" is often used in political and legal circles to refer to the process of removing unwanted personnel, information, or influences from an organization or institution. In summary, the origin of the word "purge" can be traced back to its Old French roots, which implied a process of cleansing and purifying. While the meaning of the term has evolved over time, its fundamental connotation of removing something unpleasant or impure from a substance or object has stayed consistent.