2filter verb
filters; filtered; filter·ing 1 [+ obj] a : to pass (something, such as a gas or liquid) through a filter to remove something unwanted
▪ They've begun filtering their water to remove impurities.
b : to remove (something unwanted) by using a filter
▪ a device that filters impurities from water ▪ sunglasses that filter ultraviolet light — often + out ▪ sunglasses that filter out ultraviolet light — often used figuratively ▪ The purpose of the first interview is to filter out people who are not good candidates for the job. 2 always followed by an adverb or preposition [no obj] a : to move through or into something in small amounts or in a gradual way
▪ Sunlight filtered through the leaves. ▪ His ideas have filtered down to his children.
b : to come or go slowly in small groups or amounts
▪ The crowd filtered into the arena. ▪ The crowd filtered out (of the arena). ▪ Early election returns have begun to filter in.
▪ They've begun filtering their water to remove impurities.
b : to remove (something unwanted) by using a filter
▪ a device that filters impurities from water ▪ sunglasses that filter ultraviolet light — often + out ▪ sunglasses that filter out ultraviolet light — often used figuratively ▪ The purpose of the first interview is to filter out people who are not good candidates for the job.
▪ Sunlight filtered through the leaves. ▪ His ideas have filtered down to his children.
b : to come or go slowly in small groups or amounts
▪ The crowd filtered into the arena. ▪ The crowd filtered out (of the arena). ▪ Early election returns have begun to filter in.
