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

This compact model combines HEPA filtration and proprietary VortexAir technology to effectively tackle pollen, dust, odors and more. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

Proper air filtration can also make a big difference for people who suffer from seasonal allergies, or who live in areas with warm-weather wildfires. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 31 May 2026

An algae bloom shortly after the Reflecting Pool reopened in 2012 forced the National Park Service to scramble, drain the pool, and recalibrate the filtration system. —Joseph Konig, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026

In Newark, New Jersey students partnered with a local coalition to design and build a mobile water filtration system for communities hit hardest by the city’s ongoing lead contamination crisis. —Rajiv Vinnakota, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026

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

Rhymes for filtration

• ablation
• aeration
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation

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