noun
Uncommon
sorting
Sorting (noun) means the act or process of arranging things into order or categories. Example: “The sorting of recyclables happens at the depot.”
noun
1
The act or process of arranging things into order or categories.
"The sorting of recyclables happens at the depot."
"Sorting the laundry into lights and darks saves time later."
"The post office's sorting is done overnight by machine."
How to use sorting
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe action noun of "sort" — putting things in order or into groups.
Common pairings
sorting algorithm
sorting process
mail sorting
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Word forms
- Plural
- sortings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of recyclables happens at the depot.
Synonyms
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ordering
arranging
classifying
organizing
grouping
categorizing
sort
categorisation
classification
categorization
Related words
Rhymes for sorting
snorting
sporting
shorting
reporting
escorting
cavorting
comforting
supporting
distorting
transporting
See all rhymes for sorting →
Frequently asked questions
What does “sorting” mean?
The word “sorting” means the act or process of arranging things into order or categories. In plain terms, the action noun of "sort" — putting things in order or into groups.
How do you use “sorting” in a sentence?
Here is “sorting” used in a sentence: “The sorting of recyclables happens at the depot.”
What part of speech is “sorting”?
“Sorting” is a noun.
Is “sorting” a common word?
“Sorting” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "sorting" and "filtering"?
Sorting arranges items into an order, such as alphabetical or numerical, while filtering selects which items to include or exclude based on criteria. You can sort a filtered list, or filter a sorted one, since the two operations serve different purposes.
What is the difference between "sorting" and "classifying"?
Sorting typically arranges items into a sequence or order, while classifying groups items into categories based on shared characteristics. Sorting mail by delivery route and classifying mail by type are related but distinct tasks.
Where is "sorting" commonly used as a technical term?
In computing and data management, sorting refers to arranging data into a specified order, such as sorting a list of numbers or names, which is a fundamental operation in programming and spreadsheets.
