Chaff

usgb/tʃæf/
noun

The husks of grains and grasses that are left over after threshing.

The farmer separated the wheat from the chaff
Visual representation of "chaff" - The husks of grains and grasses that are left over after threshing

Often appears as...

  • separate wheat from chaff
  • chaff from the grain
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "chaff"
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Agricultural Origin

Originally refers to leftover parts during grain harvest, not the edible kernels.

Illustration for Agricultural Origin
Threshing machines help to break the grain free of the chaff.
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Metaphoric Use

Used metaphorically to differentiate valuable things from worthless ones.

Illustration for Metaphoric Use
After some discussion, they could separate the clever ideas from the chaff.
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Historical Context

Understanding historic grain processing can clarify this term's figurative use.

Illustration for Historical Context
In history, winnowing was a common way to remove chaff from the grain.
Visual representation of the word "Chaff"

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