A "panel" is a flat, typically rectangular piece of material used in various contexts, such as construction, art, and technology. In architecture, panels can refer to sections of walls or ceilings, often made from materials like wood, metal, or glass. In art, a panel may serve as a surface for painting or displaying images. In technology, a panel often refers to a control interface, such as a dashboard in software applications or a control panel for machinery. Panels can also be used in discussions or presentations, where a group of experts shares insights on a specific topic, known as a panel discussion.