Words that start with P

extension A pendulum is something heavy suspended from a fixed point on the end of a long, thin rod. Pendulums are swung backwards and forwards, and are commonly seen in old fashioned clocks like grandfather clocks.

Penne is a pasta shaped like straight tubes with slanted ends. It is usually made from wheat flour and water, then boiled until tender but slightly firm. Some penne has ridges, called penne rigate, which help sauce stick to it. Smooth penne is called penne lisce.

A penny is another name for one cent.

A pentagon is a shape with five sides. The building in the picture has been made in the shape of a pentagon.

Peppercorns are the fruit and seeds of a vine native to India. The fruit is very small and only has one seed, and a thin layer of flesh around the outside. Peppercorns are dried and sold as pepper, either whole or ground up into small flakes or a powder. Pepper is usually sold in white and black. White pepper is made from just the seeds of the pepper fruit, and black pepper is made from the whole fruit, seed and all.

Percherons are a large breed of horse designed for pulling heavy loads. They are originally from France.

The peregrine falcon is a medium-sized bird of prey with dark, barred coloring on its back and pale underparts. It can be found around the world, including on cliffs and in cities. Peregrine falcons hunt by flying fast and diving to strike other birds in midair.

Something that is free of flaws and imperfections and cannot be made better in any way is perfect.

Perfume is a liquid that has a nice smell. It is made from essential oils, usually found in flowers and scented plants. Perfume is usually sprayed on your skin to make you smell better.

Peridot is gem-quality olivine. Olivine is quite common but peridot is rare, so peridot is considered a precious gem.