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

Door handles on the exterior, such as on the front and back doors, may also need more frequent cleaning since they are exposed to dirt and dust from lawn mowing and leaf blowing, pollen, and people outside the home. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2026

Dip a rag or bristled brush in a detergent solution and use it to lift dirt, grime, pollen, mold, and mildew from outdoor chairs, tables, and umbrellas. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025

Hole soil analysis also found ancient pollens of maize – a key staple in the Andes – and reeds traditionally used for basket-making. —New Atlas, 21 Dec. 2025

If a cat ingests any part of a lily, its pollen or water, immediately contact a veterinarian or the Pet Poison Hotline. —Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025

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