Final answer:
Filters are used in data processing to select documents that meet specific criteria, passing only these through to the next stage of processing.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of data processing or database management, filters refer to tools or mechanisms used to sift through a set of documents or data. A filter operates by applying certain criteria or conditions to the data set; only documents that meet these criteria are then passed on to the subsequent stage for further processing or analysis. This operation is essential in many systems for ensuring that only relevant data is examined, which is particularly important when dealing with large volumes of information.