Panelled vs. Paneled: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 24, 2024
Panelled (British English) and paneled (American English) both describe something that has been fitted with panels. The difference lies in the spelling convention based on regional English usage.
Key Differences
Panelled is the British English spelling of the term used to describe something that has been fitted or adorned with panels. Paneled is the American English spelling of the same term. American English often simplifies the spelling by using a single "l" in similar cases.
Panelled is commonly found in British publications and contexts, maintaining consistency with other British spellings such as "travelled" or "labelled." Paneled, on the other hand, is seen in American texts and aligns with other American spellings like "traveled" or "labeled."
In terms of meaning, both words are identical, referring to surfaces or structures covered with panels. Whether referring to walls, doors, or other items, the terms convey the same idea of segmented sections often used for decorative or functional purposes.
When writing or reading texts, the choice between panelled and paneled will depend on the regional spelling norms being followed. British English readers will recognize panelled as correct, while American English readers will expect paneled.
The context of usage also plays a role. In international communication, understanding both variations ensures clarity and avoids confusion, while local contexts will adhere to the preferred spelling norms of either British or American English.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Fitted or adorned with panels
Fitted or adorned with panels
Spelling Convention
British English
American English
Common Usage
UK, Commonwealth countries
USA, other regions using American English
Examples
"The room was panelled elegantly."
"The room was paneled elegantly."
Similar Words
Travelled, labelled
Traveled, labeled
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Panelled and Paneled Definitions
Panelled
Adorned with flat, rectangular sections.
The office had panelled walls to enhance its look.
Paneled
Constructed with framed sections.
The paneled ceiling gave the room a stately feel.
Panelled
Constructed with framed sections.
The panelled ceiling added a touch of elegance to the room.
Paneled
Decorated with flat sections.
The study was paneled with rich mahogany.
Panelled
Fitted with panels (British English).
The library was beautifully panelled in oak.
Paneled
Covered in wooden or metal panels.
The door was paneled for a classic appearance.
Panelled
Covered in segmented wooden or metal sections.
The door was panelled for added durability.
Paneled
Fitted with panels (American English).
The living room was tastefully paneled in cherry wood.
Panelled
Decorated with sections or panels.
The hallways were panelled with intricate designs.
Paneled
Adorned with rectangular sections.
The office featured paneled walls for a sophisticated look.
Panelled
A flat, usually rectangular piece forming a raised, recessed, or framed part of the surface in which it is set.
Paneled
A flat, usually rectangular piece forming a raised, recessed, or framed part of the surface in which it is set.
Panelled
The space or section in a fence or railing between two posts.
Paneled
The space or section in a fence or railing between two posts.
Panelled
A vertical section of fabric; a gore.
Paneled
A vertical section of fabric; a gore.
Panelled
A thin wooden board, used as a surface for an oil painting.
Paneled
A thin wooden board, used as a surface for an oil painting.
Panelled
A painting on such a board.
Paneled
A painting on such a board.
Panelled
A board having switches or buttons to control an electric device.
Paneled
A board having switches or buttons to control an electric device.
Panelled
An instrument panel.
Paneled
An instrument panel.
Panelled
A section of a telephone switchboard.
Paneled
A section of a telephone switchboard.
Panelled
A cartoon drawing in a sequence of cartoons that form a narrative.
Paneled
A cartoon drawing in a sequence of cartoons that form a narrative.
Panelled
The complete list of persons summoned for jury duty.
Paneled
The complete list of persons summoned for jury duty.
Panelled
Those persons chosen from this list to constitute a pool from which a jury or juries will be selected for a particular court.
Paneled
Those persons chosen from this list to constitute a pool from which a jury or juries will be selected for a particular court.
Panelled
A jury.
Paneled
A jury.
Panelled
A group of people gathered to plan or discuss an issue, judge a contest, or act as a team on a radio or television quiz program.
Paneled
A group of people gathered to plan or discuss an issue, judge a contest, or act as a team on a radio or television quiz program.
Panelled
A discussion by such a group.
Paneled
A discussion by such a group.
Panelled
To cover or furnish with panels.
Paneled
To cover or furnish with panels.
Panelled
To decorate with panels.
Paneled
To decorate with panels.
Panelled
To separate into panels.
Paneled
To separate into panels.
Panelled
(British spelling) Having panels.
Paneled
(US) Having panels.
Panelled
(British spelling) panel
Paneled
(US) panel
Paneled
Decorated with panels or wainscoting; - used of walls; as, a paneled family room.
Paneled
Used of walls; decorated with panels or wainscoting
FAQs
Are panelled and paneled interchangeable?
They are interchangeable in meaning but should follow the appropriate regional spelling convention.
Why does British English use double 'l' in panelled?
British English retains the double 'l' in words ending in 'l' when adding suffixes.
Can paneled be used in British English?
It can be understood, but panelled is preferred in British English.
What is the difference between panelled and paneled?
Panelled is British English, while paneled is American English; both mean fitted with panels.
Does the spelling affect the pronunciation?
No, both panelled and paneled are pronounced the same way.
Does Canadian English use panelled or paneled?
Canadian English often follows British conventions, so panelled is more common.
Is panelled correct in American English?
No, paneled is the correct spelling in American English.
Is 'paneled' used in international English?
Paneled is used in American English, which is often seen in international contexts, especially in media and technology.
Which spelling should I use in formal writing?
Use panelled for British English and paneled for American English, depending on your audience.
Where would you commonly see the spelling 'panelled'?
In British English texts, including books, articles, and formal documents.
Do educational institutions prefer one spelling over the other?
Preferences depend on the institution’s regional location and spelling conventions.
Is one spelling more correct than the other?
Both spellings are correct within their respective regional conventions.
Are there exceptions to these spelling rules?
Generally, the rules are followed consistently, but awareness of audience and context is key.
Can software spell checkers help with these differences?
Yes, setting your spell checker to British or American English will help ensure correct usage.
Can panelled and paneled be used in the same document?
It’s best to stick to one regional spelling for consistency within a document.
How does the use of panelled or paneled affect readability?
Using the appropriate regional spelling enhances readability and professionalism.
Are these spellings used in specific industries?
Both spellings are used in construction, interior design, and literature, following regional norms.
What is the historical reason for these spelling differences?
The differences stem from the evolution of British and American English over time.
Are there other words with similar spelling differences?
Yes, examples include travelled/traveled and labelled/labeled.
How can writers ensure they use the correct spelling?
Writers should know their audience and use the appropriate regional spelling.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
