Folioles, also known as leaflets or sub-leaves, are smaller leaf-like structures that make up a larger leaf. Some synonyms for folioles include pinnae, lobes, segments, leaflets and blades. Pinnae and lobes are generally used to describe leaflets that are larger than normal, while segments and blades describe the shape of the folioles. Other terms used to describe folioles include frondlets, pinnules and sub-foliage. The different terms used to describe folioles vary based on the plant species and the size and shape of the leaflets. Regardless of the term used, folioles play an important role in photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration for the plant.