1. to separate (fine particles) from coarser material by washing and decanting, or by using a current of air or liquid
Usage: technical; chemistry and geology

Examples

• The geologist elutriates the sediment sample to isolate the finest clay particles.
• In the laboratory, researchers elutriated the mineral mixture using a stream of water.
• The process elutriates lighter particles from the heavier sand grains.
• To obtain pure clay, the technician elutriates the soil suspension repeatedly.
• The equipment elutriates particles based on their size and density.