panicle

noun

pan·​i·​cle ˈpa-ni-kəl 

1

: a compound racemose inflorescence see inflorescence illustration

2

: a pyramidal loosely branched flower cluster

panicled

ˈpa-ni-kəld 

adjective

paniculate

pa-ˈni-kyə-lət 

pə-

adjective

Examples of panicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There are some varieties that are more tolerant of afternoon sun, such as panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata). —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 13 June 2026

In late summer, the flower panicles rise above the low foliage, creating waves of purple clouds floating above the plant. —Daniel Scott, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 June 2026

What grabbed my attention were the intriguing, foot-long violet flower clusters known as panicles hanging amidst the slender, dark green leaves. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 4 June 2026

Some hydrangeas, namely smooth and panicle hydrangeas, can be pruned in early spring before new growth starts. —Marie Iannotti, The Spruce, 29 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin panicula, diminutive of panus

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for panicle

• biomechanical
• thermomechanical
• botanical
• brahmanical
• mechanical
• tyrannical
• electromechanical
• puritanical

Kids Definition

panicle

noun

pan·​i·​cle ˈpan-i-kəl 

: a branched flower cluster (as of a lilac or some grasses) in which each branch from the main stem has one or more flowers