sieve
SIV
sɪv
A tool with a mesh or perforated bottom used for separating coarse from fine parts of loose matter.
Usually implies a finer mesh than a colander, used for flour or straining small seeds.
The story behind the word. A purely Germanic word, 'sieve' has been in the English language since the dawn of time. It is related to the word 'sift', describing the rhythmic shaking motion needed to separate grain from chaff.
Word relationships
- strainer: A more general term; a sieve is often specifically for dry goods or very fine liquids.
- sifter: Specifically used for dry ingredients like flour.
Commonly confused with
- colander: A sieve has fine mesh; a colander has larger holes.
Word family
- sift (verb): To put through a sieve.
- sifter (noun): A device for sifting.
Collocations
- fine-mesh sieve
- flour sieve
- pass through a sieve
Example sentences
- "Pass the sauce through a fine sieve to ensure a silky texture." Professional technique
- "Sieve the flour and cocoa powder together to remove any lumps." Baking instruction
Memory hook
A SIEVE is for things that are SMALL and need to be SAVED from lumps. Mesh for mess.
When not to use
Don't use for draining large items like potatoes; a colander is better for that.
Fun facts
- In ancient folklore, carrying water in a sieve was considered a sign of a person's purity or a miracle.
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