A participle is a verb form that can function as an adjective, describing a noun. There are two main types of participles: present participles, which end in “-ing” (e.g., running, swimming), and past participles, which often end in “-ed” or have irregular forms (e.g., played, eaten). Participles help add detail and context to sentences. Participles can also be used to create verb tenses. For example, the present participle is used in continuous tenses, like “I am running,” while the past participle is used in perfect tenses, such as “I have eaten.” Understanding participles enhances sentence variety and clarity.