Sift: meaning, definitions and examples

to separate

To sift means to separate and remove particles by passing them through a sieve or similar device. It can also refer to examining something thoroughly in order to select or separate out the important or valuable parts.

filter, screen, strain

Examples of usage

• She sifted the flour to remove any lumps before baking.

• He sifted through the evidence to find the key information.

fine particles

As a noun, sift refers to fine particles that have been separated or sifted out from a mixture. These particles are usually smaller and lighter than the rest of the mixture.

Examples of usage

• The sift left in the flour helped to make the cake light and fluffy.