Granular
/ˈɡrænjʊlər/
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving a texture composed of or appearing as if composed of small grains or particles.
/ˈɡrænjʊlər/
Composed of or resembling small grains or particles.
The surface of the rock had a granular appearance.
💡 Simply: Think of the texture of sugar or sand. If something's granular, it's made up of lots of tiny bits. For example, a granular database can be broken down into very specific details.
👶 For kids: Like when you look at sand and see lots of tiny bits! If something is granular, it means it's made of small pieces like that.
More Examples
The information was presented in a granular format, allowing for detailed analysis.
The granular texture of the sugar made it easy to dissolve in the coffee.
How It's Used
"The soil had a granular texture, making it ideal for drainage."
"The software provides granular control over user permissions."
Characterized by, or relating to, small or fine details, specific units, or individual components of a larger whole.
/ˈɡrænjʊlər/
Relating to or consisting of small, distinct components.
The manager requested a granular breakdown of the project's budget.
💡 Simply: Imagine having a map with a lot of small details. Granular means you have very specific information about each part. For example, a granular analysis looks at the details of each aspect.
👶 For kids: If something is granular, it means it's made up of lots of small pieces, or has a lot of small details!
More Examples
The report provided a granular analysis of the market trends.
The program offers granular control over individual settings.
How It's Used
"The company needed a granular understanding of its customer base."
"The system allows for granular access control, restricting specific actions."
From Latin *granulum* (a small grain), diminutive of *granum* (grain). The term entered English in the 17th century, initially to describe textures and formations.
Used since the 17th century, the word's meaning has evolved from describing physical textures to encompass more abstract concepts like the level of detail in information.
Memory tip
Imagine a handful of sand: granular means it's made up of tiny grains.