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

Most air pollution standards and regulations have been focused on larger particulate matter, such as PM2.5 – which includes organic compounds and metal particulates – and PM10, a category that includes dust, pollen and mold. —Discover Magazine, 1 Nov. 2024

Vanilla continues onto the palate but morphs into custard form, complemented by notes of fennel pollen, a hint of banana, a healthy dose of spice, and a bit of leather and oak. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2024

The best air purifiers remove air pollutants like pollen, dust, smoke, and pet dander, and many can also help eliminate unwelcome odors. —Camryn Rabideau, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024

This downward orientation is thought to protect its nectar and pollen from rain. —Nina Foster, JSTOR Daily, 25 Oct. 2024

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

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