Definition

To clean or separate something by washing away lighter particles or impurities, often used in the context of materials like soil or ore.

Example

The scientist decided to elutriate the sample to remove any unwanted fine particles.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to elutriate your garden soil?

No, I haven’t heard of that method before. How does it work?

You basically wash away the lighter particles to get better quality soil.

That sounds interesting! I might give it a try next spring.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Elutriate is formed from "e-" (meaning out) and "lutriare" (from Latin "lutra", meaning to wash or to cleanse). The word describes the process of washing or cleansing something, particularly in a way that separates finer particles from coarser ones.

Memory Tip

Think of 'washing out' ('e-') impurities or unwanted materials ('lutriare') to remember that elutriate means to cleanse or purify.

Visually Confused Words