Dots Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dots

[dÉ’ts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on a page

A dot is a small, round mark used in writing or printing to separate sentences or indicate a pause. Dots are also used in mathematics to represent decimal points or to show multiplication.

Synonyms

period, point, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dots

Small round marks or points, often used in writing or design.

  • She connected the dots to solve the puzzle.
  • The dress has blue and white dots all over it.
point

Precise location or idea in discussion or geometry; can also mean to indicate something.

  • She made a very good point during the meeting.
  • The sharp point of the pencil broke.
period

Punctuation mark used at the end of a sentence, or a span of time in history.

  • Don't forget to put a period at the end of your sentence.
  • The Victorian period was known for its strict social codes.
spot

Specific location or a small mark or stain, can mean a place or blemish.

  • Meet me at the usual spot in the park.
  • There's a spot of ketchup on your shirt.

Examples of usage

  • She put a dot at the end of each sentence.
  • The teacher asked the students to connect the dots to reveal the hidden picture.
Context #2 | Noun

in technology

In technology, a dot is often used as part of an internet address to separate the different parts of the address.

Examples of usage

  • The website address ends with a dot com.
  • You need to enter a dot between the domain name and the extension.
Context #3 | Verb

in art

To dot means to mark with small, round spots or specks. It is a technique used in painting, drawing, or even makeup application.

Examples of usage

  • She dotted the canvas with different colors.
  • The artist carefully dotted the eyes of the portrait.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art

  • Artists like Georges Seurat used tiny dots of color to create beautiful, detailed paintings through a technique called pointillism.
  • Dots are often used in comic strips to show shading, adding depth and making characters look more interesting.

Technology

  • In digital design, pixels are tiny dots that combine to create images on screens, making everything we see possible.
  • The Braille system uses raised dots on paper so visually impaired individuals can read by feeling the dots.

Games

  • In games like dominoes and dice, dots serve as a counting system, helping players keep track of scores.
  • The classic game of dot-to-dot joins numbered dots to reveal hidden pictures, teaching counting and fine motor skills.

Language

  • In writing, a single dot is a period, which tells us when to stop and pause as we read.
  • Punctuation marks like ellipses (three dots) suggest a pause or that something is left unsaid, creating suspense in writing.

Origin of 'dots'

The word 'dot' originated from the Middle English 'dot' or 'dote', meaning 'speck' or 'mark'. It has been used in various languages and cultures throughout history, evolving to represent different concepts like punctuation, technology, and art. The significance of dots has grown with the development of writing systems, mathematics, and digital communication.


See also: dot, dotted, dotting.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,096 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.