Sift — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

verb /ˈsift/

Meaning & Definition of Sift

Sift (verb)

  1. to put through a sieve
  2. to separate or separate out by or as if by putting through a sieve
  3. to go through especially to sort out what is useful or valuable —often used with through

Sift (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. as in filter, sieve

    similar: filter, screen, sieve, strain, lay, sediment, settle, clarify, clear, resettle
    opposite: raise, agitate, disturb, mix, stir

  2. as in study, inspect

    similar: inspect, study, view, delve (into), dig (into), examine, explore, inquire (into), investigate, look (into), probe, research, browse, cruise, peruse, scan, skim (through), surf, thumb (through), reinvestigate

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Sift

The most common words with a similar meaning to Sift:

filter, screen, sieve, strain, lay, sediment, settle, clarify, clear, resettle, inspect, study, view, delve (into), dig (into), examine, explore, inquire (into), investigate, look (into), probe, research, browse, cruise, peruse, scan, skim (through), surf, thumb (through), reinvestigate

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Sift

Words with the opposite meaning of Sift:

raise, agitate, disturb, mix, stir

Word Forms of Sift

Inflections: sifted, sifting, sifts

Derived words: sifter (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Sift

Middle English, from Old English siftan; akin to Old English sife sieve

First known use: before 12th centuryt

Frequently Asked Questions about Sift

What does "Sift" mean?

"Sift" means to put through a sieve. As a verb, it is defined as: to put through a sieve. It has 2 distinct senses.

What is another word for "Sift"?

Other words for "Sift" include filter, screen, sieve, strain, lay, sediment, settle and clarify. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Sift" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Sift"?

There are 30 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Sift". Common alternatives include filter, screen, sieve, strain, lay, sediment, settle, clarify, clear and resettle.

What is the opposite of "Sift"?

Antonyms of "Sift" include raise, agitate, disturb, mix and stir.

Is "Sift" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Sift" is a verb.

How do you pronounce "Sift"?

"Sift" is pronounced /ˈsift/.

What is the origin of the word "Sift"?

"Sift" comes from Middle English, from Old English siftan; akin to Old English sife sieve. First known use: before 12th centuryt.

What is another word for "Sift" meaning "as in filter, sieve"?

When "Sift" (verb) means as in filter, sieve, synonyms include filter, screen, sieve, strain, lay and sediment. Opposites in this sense include raise, agitate, disturb and mix.