granule

noun

gran·​ule ˈgran-(ˌ)yül How to pronounce granule (audio)
Synonyms of granulenext
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

Examples of granule in a Sentence

is there one granule of truth in that statement?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When to Use Kosher Salt Kosher salt is not as dense as table salt—because the two have different-sized granules, they cannot be used interchangeably. Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2026 Once those granules are removed, shingles become more vulnerable to premature aging, cracking, and water intrusion. Colleen Sullivan, Martha Stewart, 14 June 2026 Prime lips for a perfectly smooth, even application using the 3-in-1 Lip Scrub pen, which gently scrubs away dead skin with super-fine sugar granules and keeps lips hydrated with nourishing shea butter and algae. ABC News, 19 May 2026 Hail damage can be subtle — granule loss and small dents that shorten a roof’s life without obvious leaks. Ryan Brennan may 15, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for granule

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin granulum, diminutive of Latin granum grain

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of granule was in 1652

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Granule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/granule. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

granule

noun
gran·​ule ˈgran-yü(ə)l How to pronounce granule (audio)
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 How to pronounce granule (audio)
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
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