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

Its filtration is sufficient for keeping most sediment out. —Adam Campbell-Schmitt, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Apr. 2025

Wayfair is brimming with options featuring varying filtration systems, including air purifiers that are designed specifically for smaller spaces. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 5 Apr. 2025

These new projects incorporate traditional grates for removal of solid waste like plastic bottles but also use a multilayer filtration system that mimics the way forests and wetlands naturally purify water. —Courtney Heath, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2025

These devices circulate air through a filtration system that removes allergens and other particles, improving overall air quality and reducing dust buildup over time. —Daniel More, Verywell Health, 26 Mar. 2025

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
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

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