panicle

noun

pan·​i·​cle ˈpa-ni-kəl How to pronounce panicle (audio)
1
: a compound racemose inflorescence see inflorescence illustration
2
: a pyramidal loosely branched flower cluster
panicled
ˈpa-ni-kəld How to pronounce panicle (audio)
adjective
paniculate
pa-ˈni-kyə-lət How to pronounce panicle (audio)
pə-
adjective

Examples of panicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
New wood hydrangeas, like panicle and smooth hydrangeas, on the other hand, produce buds on new growth and are much more flexible about pruning. — Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 28 July 2026 The soft white panicles of the oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) offer a surprising color twist through fall. — Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 21 July 2026 Perfect for cutting and drying, the showy flower heads consist of white flowers packed onto pyramidal panicles. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 In fall, the panicles dry on the plant and can be a source of interest even in the gray winter. — Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for panicle

Word History

Etymology

Latin panicula, diminutive of panus

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of panicle was in 1577

Rhymes for panicle

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Browse Nearby Words

panicky
panicle
panic party
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Cite this Entry

“Panicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/panicle. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

panicle

noun
pan·​i·​cle ˈpan-i-kəl How to pronounce panicle (audio)
: a branched flower cluster (as of a lilac or some grasses) in which each branch from the main stem has one or more flowers

More from Merriam-Webster on panicle

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about panicle

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