Definition

A person or machine that separates grain from chaff by using air or wind.

Example

The winnower efficiently removed the chaff from the harvested grain.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a winnower in action at the farm?

No, I haven't! What do they do exactly?

They help separate the grain from the chaff, making the process much easier.

That sounds really interesting; I’d love to watch one work!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Winnower → The word 'winnower' is derived from 'winnow' (from Old English 'windwian', meaning to separate or sift) and the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A winnower is a person who separates grain from chaff by the action of wind or blowing.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'separating' ('windwian') grain from chaff, and the '-er' indicates that this person is doing the action. A winnower is someone who separates grain.

Visually Confused Words