Skip to definition.
Get the FREE one-click dictionary software for Windows.


Noun: purgatory  'purgu`toree [N. Amer], purgut(u)ree [Brit]
  1. A temporary condition of torment or suffering
    "a purgatory of drug abuse"
     
  2. (theology) in Roman Catholic theology the place where those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins

Derived forms: purgatories

See also: purgatorial

Type of: fictitious place, imaginary place, mythical place, situation

Encyclopedia: Purgatory