winnow
winnow
UK[ˈwɪnəʊ]US[ˈwɪnoʊ]
v
to separate the chaff from (grain) by means of a current of air.
v
to remove (people or things that are less important, useful, or desirable) from a larger group or number.
Etymology
the word 'winnow' originates from old english 'windwian', which means 'to fan' or 'to expose to the wind'. this verb is derived from 'wind', referencing the fundamental method of using wind to separate grain from lighter chaff. the semantic evolution is direct and practical, moving from the literal agricultural process to a metaphorical sense of separating or sifting through items to isolate the valuable or desired elements. its journey reflects a straightforward adoption of a natural process into both concrete and abstract english vocabulary.
Analysis
this is a simplex word derived from old english 'windwian', meaning 'to fan or winnow'. its functional role is as a complete verb root.
Examples
farmers used to winnow the wheat by tossing it into the air with large forks.
the second interview will help to winnow out the less suitable candidates.
she winnowed her extensive book collection down to only her absolute favorites.