definition of
sieve

[1] #1 sieve n. [screen] a strainer for separating lumps from powdered material or grading particles. wn

[2] #2 sieve v. [screen, screen out, sort] examine in order to test suitability; "screen these samples"; "screen the job applicants". wn

[3] #3 sieve v. [sift] check and sort carefully; "sift the information". wn

[4] #4 sieve v. [sift, strain] separate by passing through a sieve or other straining device to separate out coarser elements; "sift the flour". wn

[5] #5 sieve v. [sift] distinguish and separate out; "sift through the job candidates". wn