sift
verb (used with object)
to separate and retain the coarse parts of (flour, ashes, etc.) with a sieve.
are sifting
-
present progressiveof sift.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Banks are sifting through their exposure to the bankrupt auto-parts supplier and its chain of customers and suppliers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 30, 2025
Gluckstein and his co-founder, “NYPD Blue” and “L.A. Law” actor Jimmy Smits, are sifting through decades of memories.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 26, 2024
In a now-roofless, burnt-out house in kibbutz Be'eri, Israeli archaeological teams are sifting through ashes and rubble.
From Reuters ● Nov. 8, 2023
Personnel aboard Navy and Coast Guard ships are sifting through a debris field measuring about 1,500 meters by 1,500 meters, the general said.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 6, 2023
All around us, people perceptibly in need of new clothes are sifting through the racks and piles of hanging and folded goods.
From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone
