pollen

noun

pol·​len ˈpä-lən 

1

: a mass of microspores in a seed plant appearing usually as a fine dust

2

: a dusty bloom on the body of an insect

Examples of pollen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Recent allergy reports show other tree pollens making an appearance, including ash, elm, and oak, which is a clear sign that spring tree blooms are just around the corner. —Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 21 Feb. 2026

Cleaning it early often means having to clean it again later, after pollen, spring storms, and birds have had their effects. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Feb. 2026

Sliding Door and Window Tracks Door and window tracks collect both indoor and outdoor grime, from dust and pollen to insects and their remnants. —Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 19 Feb. 2026

This wildlife-friendly tree provides food and shelter for birds, nectar and pollen for pollinators, and hosts several butterfly species, including tiger swallowtails. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin pollin-, pollen, from Latin, fine flour

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pollen

• pollen basket
• pollen count
• pollen grain
• pollen mother cell
• pollen sac
• pollen tube

Rhymes for pollen

• cauline
• fallen
• paulin
• befallen
• crestfallen
• tarpaulin

Kids Definition

pollen

noun

pol·​len ˈpäl-ən 

: a mass of tiny particles in the anthers of a flower that fertilize the seeds and usually appear as fine yellow dust

Medical Definition

pollen

noun

pol·​len ˈpäl-ən 

: a mass of male spores in a seed plant appearing usually as a fine dust