purgatoire
purgatory
noun pür-gah-TWAR Rare
Origin: From medieval Latin 'purgatorium', from 'purgare' (to cleanse).
Usage Note
Purgatoire in Catholic doctrine is the state of purification after death before entering heaven. Figuratively, French speakers use it for any prolonged ordeal or waiting period. The adjective purgatoire also exists but is rare; more common is the form used in the compound feu du purgatoire (the fires of purgatory).
Examples
"Les âmes séjournent au purgatoire avant le paradis."
Natural Translation
Souls dwell in purgatory before paradise.
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