to remove something that you do not want from a liquid, light, etc. by using a special device or substance
Example:
- to filter out dust particles/light/impurities
- The air was improving as the recyclers filtered out the smoke.
to remove somebody/something that you do not want from a large number of people or things using a special system, device, etc.
Example:
- The test is used to filter out candidates who may be unsuitable.
- The software filters out internet sites whose content is not suitable for children.