Filterable

/ˈfɪltərəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Capable of being filtered; able to pass through or be separated by a filter.

Etymology

From 'filter' (Medieval Latin filtrum) plus the suffix '-able' (Latin -abilis, capable of). Used in scientific contexts since the 19th century.

Kelly Says

The discovery of filterable viruses—particles so small they could pass through fine filters—revolutionized medicine in the 1890s and revealed a whole invisible world of infectious agents.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.