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

Its thorough filtration process captures pollen, dust, and other small particles, while also absorbing odors and fumes. —Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 2025

This model protects against allergens like pollen and pet dander, smoke, dust, and does it all from a place of covert, inoffensive design. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025

Most people can easily consume kiwi daily, but people with kiwi allergies, pollen allergies, and kidney stones should avoid them. —Kathi Valeii Published, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 2025

Rising temperatures lengthen pollen seasons and increase pollen volume. —Shooshan Danagoulian, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 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