Definitions for: Purgatory

[n] (theology) a place where Roman Catholics think those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins
[n] a temporary condition of torment or suffering; "a purgatory of drug abuse"

Webster (1913) Definition: Pur"ga*to*ry, a. [L. purgatorius.]
Tending to cleanse; cleansing; expiatory. --Burke.

Pur"ga*to*ry, n. [Cf. F. purgatoire.]
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.

See Also: imaginary place, situation, state of affairs

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