Simple Definition of participle

from our Learner's Dictionary

participle

noun

ˈpɑɚtəˌsɪpəl How to pronounce participle (audio)
British pɑˈtɪsəpəl
plural participles
grammar : a form of a verb that is used to indicate a past or present action and that can also be used like an adjective
In the phrases "the finishing touches" and "the finished product," "finishing" and "finished" are participles formed from the verb "finish."

Cite this Entry

“Participle.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/participle. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on participle

More from Merriam-Webster