Dictionary

pristine

adjective pris·tine \ˈpris-ˌtēn, pri-ˈstēn, especially British ˈpris-ˌtīn\

: in perfect condition : completely clean, fresh, neat, etc.

: not changed by people : left in its natural state

Full Definition of PRISTINE

: belonging to the earliest period or state : original <the hypothetical pristine lunar atmosphere>

a : not spoiled, corrupted, or polluted (as by civilization) : pure <a pristine forest>

b : fresh and clean as or as if new <used books in pristine condition>

— pris·tine·ly adverb

See pristine defined for English-language learners

See pristine defined for kids

Latin pristinus; akin to Latin prior

First Known Use: 1534

Next Word in the Dictionary: PristiophoridaePrevious Word in the Dictionary: PristidaeAll Words Near: pristine

What made you want to look up pristine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears