granule

noun

gran·​ule ˈgran-(ˌ)yül 

1

: a small particle

especially : one of numerous particles forming a larger unit

2

: any of the small short-lived brilliant spots on the sun's photosphere

Synonyms

• atom
• bit
• crumb
• dribble
• fleck
• flyspeck
• grain
• molecule
• morsel
• mote
• nubbin
• nugget
• particle
• patch
• scrap
• scruple
• snip
• snippet
• speck
• tittle

Examples of granule in a Sentence

is there one granule of truth in that statement?

Recent Examples on the Web

The fine granules will dissolve in the dough and impart subtle mocha notes, adding a deeper, more complex flavor to your cookies. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 3 May 2025

Course salt granules can cause skin tearing and irritation. —Susan Bard, Health, 18 Mar. 2025

Conventional fertilizers are typically applied to the soil as either a liquid, powder, or granules. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 24 Feb. 2025

Then apply pre-emergent herbicide granules the first week of September to prevent germination of next year’s crop. —Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin granulum, diminutive of Latin granum grain

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for granule

• spaniel

Kids Definition

granule

noun

gran·​ule ˈgran-yü(ə)l 

1

: a small grain or particle

granules of sugar

2

: a small short-lived bright spot on the sun

Medical Definition

granule

noun

gran·​ule ˈgran-(ˌ)yü(ə)l 

1

a

: a little grain or small particle

especially : one of a number of particles forming a larger unit

b

: a small sugar-coated pill

2

: a clump of actinomycetes in a lesion