purgatory
//ˈpɜːɡətɔːri//
Noun
purgatorySingular
purgatoriesPlural
1
(In Roman Catholic doctrine) A place or state of suffering inhabited by the souls of sinners who are expiating their sins before going to heaven.
According to Catholic belief, souls in purgatory are purified before entering heaven.
2
A place or situation of temporary suffering, misery, or torment.
Waiting for the test results was purgatory.
Adjective
purgatoryCanonical form
1
Having the quality of cleansing or purifying.
The ritual bath was believed to have purgatory effects on the soul.