sorting

American  

[sawr-ting] / ˈsɔr tɪŋ /

noun

Geology.

1. the process by which sedimentary particles become separated according to some particular characteristic, as size or shape.

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sorting Scientific  

/ sôr′tĭng /

1. The process by which sediment particles that have a certain characteristic, such as a given shape or grain size, are separated from other associated particles by an active agent of transportation, such as wind, a stream, or a glacier.

2. A measure of the degree to which this process has occurred within a body of sediment. Wind-blown sediments are usually well-sorted because only a small range of grain sizes can be lifted by a particular wind velocity. Glacially derived sediments are usually poorly sorted because of the great range of particle sizes that are picked up by a moving glacier.

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Etymology

Origin of sorting

sort + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Sorting through wonky government websites in a moment of crisis is not a pleasant undertaking, so it’s best to begin exploring options before the end approaches, if you can.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 25, 2026

Sorting through AI’s effect on the job market has been challenging.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 8, 2026

Sorting out who should pay for what after the fact can be frustrating for everyone involved.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 7, 2026

Sorting through bundles of letters, small packages and magazines, Herman Moyano is getting ready for his early morning post round.

From BBC • Aug. 20, 2025

“You missed the Sorting, anyway,” said Hermione, as Ron dived for a large chocolate gateau.

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling

Related Words

• allocation
• allotment
• analysis
• arrangement
• coordination
• designation
• distribution
• grade
• regulation