ˈpə:kəleɪt v. 1 intr. (often foll. by through) a (of
liquid etc.)
filter or ooze gradually (esp.
through a
porous surface). b (of an
idea etc.)
permeate gradually. 2 tr.
prepare (coffee) by repeatedly
passing boiling water through ground beans. 3 tr. ooze through; permeate. 4 tr. strain (a liquid,
powder, etc.) through a fine
mesh etc. øøpercolation n. [L percolare (as
PER-, colare strain f. colum strainer)]