panel

The word “panel” means a flat rectangular section set into a larger surface, such as a wall, door, or fence. In plain terms, a flat section of something, or a group of people assembled to judge or discuss.

“Panel” is pronounced PA-nuhl (/ˈpænəl/ in IPA).

Here is “panel” used in a sentence: “The old door had four carved wooden panels.”

Depending on how it is used, “panel” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “panel” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Old French panel/panelle ("piece of cloth, cushion"), from Vulgar Latin pannellus, a diminutive of Latin pannus ("cloth"). A doublet of "vane.".

“Panel” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Panel” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a flat rectangular section set into a larger surface, such as a wall, door, or fence.

In the sense of a flat section, common types include wall panels, door panels, ceiling panels, and fence panels. Related uses extend to solar panels, glass panels, and decorative wood panelling. Each is a distinct flat piece set into, or attached to, a larger structure.

Both are flat, rigid pieces, but a panel is usually set into a frame or larger surface, such as a section of a door or wall. A board is more often a free-standing plank or sheet, like a floorboard or a noticeboard. The distinction is mainly about how the piece is mounted.

The recessed rectangular sections you see on a traditional wooden door are panels. Other examples include a removable access panel on a machine, a glass panel in a window frame, or the flat sections that make up a garden fence. Each sits within a surrounding frame or surface.