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

According to the brand, the vacuum’s five-layer filtration system is designed to capture up to 99.99 percent of tiny particles, securely trapping all sorts of germs and allergens (just in time for allergy season!). —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 6 Apr. 2024

These straws boast a four-stage filtration system that effectively eliminates microplastics, waterborne bacteria, and various other contaminants. —Alexandra Domrongchai, Travel + Leisure, 4 Apr. 2024

And if the document isn’t revised to emphasize ventilation and air filtration, health facilities won’t invest in upgrades. —Amy Maxmen | Kff Health News, NBC News, 18 Mar. 2024

There’s also a HEPA filtration system for capturing particles as small as 0.1 microns. —Paul Lamkin, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024

The underside of the house is, in fact, a giant reservoir with a filtration system. —Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 27 Mar. 2024

However, be aware that some filtration systems contain plastic themselves. —Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 14 Mar. 2024

Instead of teeth, they are filled with long spikes, possibly hairs, that act less like chomping teeth and more like filtration systems. —Popular Science, 6 Mar. 2024

Plus, its multilayer filtration system can capture up to 99.70 percent of tiny germs and allergens, according to the brand. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 27 Feb. 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