purgatory Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a temporary condition of torment or suffering
    • a purgatory of drug abuse
  2. noun (theology) in Roman Catholic theology the place where those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins

WordNet

Pur"ga*to*ry adjective
Etymology
L. purgatorius.
Definitions
  1. Tending to cleanse; cleansing; expiatory. Burke.
Pur"ga*to*ry noun
Etymology
Cf. F. purgatoire.
Definitions
  1. A state or place of purification after death; according to the Roman Catholic creed, a place, or a state believed to exist after death, in which the souls of persons are purified by expiating such offenses committed in this life as do not merit eternal damnation, or in which they fully satisfy the justice of God for sins that have been forgiven. After this purgation from the impurities of sin, the souls are believed to be received into heaven.

Webster 1913