Dapple: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe something marked with spots or rounded patches, often of different colors, as seen in horses or sunlight filtering through leaves.

• The dappled sunlight created a beautiful pattern on the forest floor.
• Her horse had a lovely dappled coat.

This word is used to describe small, circular, or irregular patches of color, light, or shade, often found on surfaces like animal fur, leaves, or sunlight patterns.

• The horse's coat was dappled with spots of white and brown.
• Sunlight dapples through the leaves, creating moving patterns on the forest floor.

Spot generally describes a small, round area of color or surface irregularity. It can be used positively or neutrally for minor details.

• The ladybug has black spots on its red wings.
• He quickly wiped away the spot of dust on the table.

Blotch often refers to large, irregular patches or blemishes, typically used in a negative context to describe something unattractive or flawed.

• He noticed an unsightly blotch on his shirt after spilling coffee.
• The painting was ruined by a large blotch of paint.

This is a general term that can refer to any visible sign, line, or spot on a surface. It's neutral and can describe both positive and negative markings.

• There was a small pencil mark on the notebook.
• She left a mark on the sand with her footsteps.