filtration

noun

fil·​tra·​tion fil-ˈtrā-shən 

1

: the process of filtering

2

: the process of passing through or as if through a filter

also : diffusion

Examples of filtration in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The vacuum also has a five-stage filtration system that thoroughly traps messes and prevents germs and allergens from spewing back into the air. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) projections, as many as 9 million homes may be affected by the rule changes, many of which are in lower-income communities with little access to on-site water filtration systems. —Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

Accessibility and Sustainability There is no need to choose between sustainability and luxury here: Natural and recycled materials add to the safari-chic aesthetic, and the camp runs almost entirely off solar power and is equipped with a water filtration program. —Nicole Trilivas, Travel + Leisure, 8 Dec. 2024

Our expert rated the Dyson V15 Detect highly for stronger suction than any of its predecessors and whole-machine HEPA filtration. —Jade Chung-Lee, PCMAG, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Medieval Latin filtrātiōn-, filtrātiō, from filtrāre "to pass through a filter" + Latin -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at filtrate

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

filtration

noun

fil·​tra·​tion fil-ˈtrā-shən 

: the act or process of filtering

Medical Definition

filtration

noun

fil·​tra·​tion fil-ˈtrā-shən 

1

: the process of filtering

2

: the process of passing through or as if through a filter

also : diffusion

the kidney produces urine by filtration