Granule: meaning, definitions and examples

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granule

 

[ ˈɡræn.juːl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in science

A small compact particle of a substance.

Synonyms

grain, particle, pellet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
granule

This is a duplicate of the first instance of 'granule'. Used to describe small, grain-like particles, often in a scientific or technical context.

  • The granules of sugar dissolve quickly in hot water
  • The soil contains numerous granules of different minerals
particle

Typically used in scientific contexts to describe very small pieces of matter; often used in physics and chemistry.

  • Scientists discovered a new particle that could change our understanding of physics
  • Dust particles can be seen floating in the beam of sunlight
grain

Refers to a small, hard particle, often used to describe seeds or tiny pieces of a substance; also used metaphorically.

  • There was not a single grain of rice left on the plate
  • Taking everything with a grain of salt can help maintain a balanced perspective
pellet

Refers to a small, rounded, and typically compressed piece of material; often used for animal feed, ammunition, or small pieces of material.

  • The rabbits were fed with small pellets of dry food
  • The air rifle uses pellets instead of bullets

Examples of usage

  • The medicine is in the form of granules.
  • The granules of sugar dissolve easily in water.
Context #2 | Noun

in food industry

A small pill made by combining various ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.

Synonyms

chunk, morsel, nugget.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
granule

Granule is used to refer to very small particles or tiny amounts, often in the context of powders, grains, or other fine substances.

  • He added a few granules of sugar to his coffee.
  • The soil was rich with granules of nutrients.
morsel

Morsel is used to describe a small bite-sized piece of food, often implying something tasty or desirable.

  • He savored every morsel of the gourmet meal.
  • She gave her dog a morsel of cheese as a treat.
chunk

Chunk is best used to denote a large, solid piece or section of something, often irregular in shape, like a piece of a larger whole.

  • She cut the meat into large chunks for the stew.
  • He accidentally bit into a chunk of ice in his drink.
nugget

Nugget generally refers to a small chunk, often irregularly shaped, of a particular substance, such as gold, chicken, or informational 'gems'.

  • They found a few nuggets of gold in the river.
  • The children enjoyed eating chicken nuggets for lunch.

Examples of usage

  • She snacked on a handful of granola granules.
  • The cereal bars are packed with granules for extra crunch.
Context #3 | Noun

in pharmaceuticals

A small, rounded mass of a substance, especially medicated material.

Synonyms

capsule, pill, tablet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
granule

This word is often used to refer to small particles, usually in the context of food, medicine, or materials. They are tiny and often come in bulk.

  • The sugar granules dissolved quickly in the tea.
  • You need to mix these granules with water before drinking.
pill

The term pill is used broadly to refer to any small, solid medication meant to be swallowed. It can have a slight negative connotation when overused or generalizing medications in an informal manner.

  • He forgot to take his allergy pill today.
  • Taking too many pills can be harmful to your health.
capsule

A capsule generally refers to a small, round or cylindrical container, often used in a medical context to deliver medication. The capsule can be filled with powder or liquid.

  • She takes a vitamin D capsule every morning.
  • The capsule is easy to swallow and dissolves quickly.
tablet

This word is often used for a compacted dose of medication in a flat, round shape. It's commonly used in both medical and casual contexts.

  • The doctor prescribed two tablets daily for her condition.
  • Dissolve the tablet in water if you have trouble swallowing it.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor prescribed granules for the patient to take twice a day.
  • These granules provide slow release of the active ingredient.

Translations

Translations of the word "granule" in other languages:

🇵🇹 grânulo

🇮🇳 कण

🇩🇪 Granulat

🇮🇩 butiran

🇺🇦 гранула

🇵🇱 granulka

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 granule

🇪🇸 gránulo

🇹🇷 granül

🇰🇷 과립

🇸🇦 حبيبة

🇨🇿 granule

🇸🇰 granula

🇨🇳 颗粒

🇸🇮 granula

🇮🇸 korn

🇰🇿 түйіршік

🇬🇪 გრანულა

🇦🇿 qranul

🇲🇽 gránulo

Etymology

The word 'granule' originated from the Latin word 'granulum', which means a small grain. It has been used in various scientific fields to refer to small particles or pills. The term has evolved over time to describe different types of compact substances. Today, granules are commonly seen in medicine, food products, and pharmaceuticals for their convenient and efficient use.

See also: gran, granny.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,273, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.