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Definitions

purport

[per-pawrt, -pohrt, pur-pawrt, -pohrt, pur-pawrt, -pohrt] / pərˈpɔrt, -ˈpoʊrt, ˈpɜr pɔrt, -poʊrt, ˈpɜr pɔrt, -poʊrt /
NOUN
meaning, implication
Synonyms
STRONG
acceptation aim bearing burden connotation core design drift gist heart idea import intent intention matter meat message nub object objective pith plan point purpose score sense significance signification spirit stuff substance tendency tenor thrust understanding upshot
WEAK
intendment significancy
Antonyms
STRONG
exterior exteriority insignificance meaninglessness outside surface
VERB
assert, mean
Synonyms
STRONGEST
imply pose as pretend profess
STRONG
allege betoken claim convey declare denote express import indicate intend maintain proclaim signify suggest
WEAK
point to
Antonyms
STRONG
conceal deny disclaim hide

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Nor did the Supreme Court in Kennedy purport to overturn every decision that relied on Lemon; to the contrary, it expressly acknowledged and distinguished several such cases as good law.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2026

They’re spending over $1,000 a month in some cases on products that purport to improve their sleep, mental health, fertility, appearance and longevity, but often aren’t approved for those purposes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Anderson doesn’t purport to have the answers, only a new way to read life’s instructions.

From Salon • Sep. 28, 2025

The university also argues that the administration has failed to follow rules about suspending federal funds and that its actions are punitive and "bear no rational connection to the concerns they purport to address".

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2025

I did not hear of this charade until the next day, and did not understand its purport; rather thinking it a pleasant interlude from the more brutal games of the Sons of Liberty.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing purport

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Words That Could Go Either Way: Synonyms for "Maybe"

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Grade 12, List 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!