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filter

fil·ter

filter

 
 
pronunciation:
fIl tr
parts of speech:
noun, verb
features:
Word History, Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a device used to remove dirt or other solids from liquids or gases. A filter can be made of paper, charcoal, or other material with tiny holes in it.
The paper in a tea bag is a kind of filter.
similar words:
screen, strainer
definition 2: a device that controls or changes the brightness of light or character of a sound.
The special lens filter on that camera makes a sunny day look like evening.
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: filters, filtering, filtered
definition 1: to remove dirt from by using a filter.
The campers filtered the stream water before drinking it.
synonyms:
purify, strain
similar words:
cleanse, clear, refine
definition 2: to separate out by the use of a filter.
She filters her e-mail messages before she reads them.
synonyms:
strain
definition 3: to go through or as if through a filter.
Sunshine filtered through the fog.
similar words:
dribble, leak, ooze, seep, trickle
derivation: filterer (n.)
Word History
Filter is from a Latin word that means "felt," a fabric once used to filter liquids.
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  chemistry, digestion, excrete, film, photography, tool