Definition of purify

The word "purify" has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled "pyrigenian" or "pyringean." At that time, the term referred to a process of smelting iron ore to separate the iron from impurities, such as slag. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to encompass other purification processes besides smelting. By the Middle English period, around the 12th century, "purify" could refer to removing impurities from water, air, or other substances. The Old French word "purifier" explained its origins for those who used the language (which was widely spoken during the Middle Ages), as it literally means "cleanser" or "maker pure." The term's modern usage to describe cleansing or making something pure is likely a direct descendant of this French usage. Overall, "purify" has evolved to refer to any process that removes unwanted impurities, whether it's through smelting, filtering, washing, or any other method. The etymology of the word thus suggests its original connection to the process of refining raw materials and making them more useful or valuable.