Dotted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dotted
[ˈdɒtɪd ]
Definitions
on paper
To mark with or as if with dots or small spots. To form, decorate, or cover with dots.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dotted |
Used to describe something that has a series of small round marks or points scattered over a surface in a regular or irregular pattern. Often used in visual contexts like clothing, decorations, and patterns.
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| spot |
A general term for any small round mark or stain on a surface, often used to describe singular or individual marks rather than patterns. Sometimes can have a negative connotation.
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| fleck |
Used to describe small patches of color or particles on a surface, usually in an irregular manner. Often implies a slight, almost decorative touch.
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| speckle |
Used to describe small spots or marks scattered over a surface. Similar to 'fleck', typically used for natural patterns or textures.
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| pepper |
Used in informal contexts to describe something covered or scattered with small dots or pieces. It can imply a more intense or overwhelming spread of small elements.
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Examples of usage
- She dotted her i's with little hearts.
- The night sky was dotted with stars.
pattern
Having a pattern of small spots or dots.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dotted |
Used when describing something that has small, round spots or marks that are distributed in an orderly manner.
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| spotted |
Used when something has distinct spots, especially larger and more noticeable than specks, often used for describing animals or objects.
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| speckled |
Used when referring to something that is covered with many small spots or specks, especially randomly distributed.
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| dappled |
Used when describing something that has spots of light and shade created by the interference of light through leaves or other objects.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a dress with a dotted design.
- The road was lined with dotted markings.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- Dotted patterns are widely used in art, particularly in pointillism, a technique where small dots of color create an image when viewed from afar.
- The famous painter Georges Seurat is known for his pointillist works, which demonstrate how dots can blend to form vibrant images.
- Dotted art can also be found in various cultures, such as Aboriginal art, where dots symbolize different meanings related to stories or traditions.
Science
- In mathematics and graph theory, dots can represent points on a graph, aiding in visual data representation and relationships.
- Dotted cells are crucial in biology for microscopy, where they represent cellular structures or functions in research.
- The concept of using dots to represent quantities is foundational in statistics, where dot plots visually display data distributions.
Fashion
- Polka dots became popular in fashion in the 1920s and have since been a timeless design choice for clothing, accessories, and home decor.
- Famous figures like Marilyn Monroe and fashion brands have contributed to the ongoing popularity of dotted patterns in modern trends.
- Dotted patterns often symbolize playfulness and fun, making them a favorite for both children and adults in fashion design.
Technology
- In technology, dotted notation is used in network addressing, such as IPv4 addresses represented as four numbers separated by dots.
- Dot-matrix printers revolutionized the printing process by using a grid of small dots to form characters and images.
- Dotted lines are often used in digital design to indicate paths or connections in graphics software, enhancing visual clarity.
Origin of 'dotted'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dotted' comes from the Old English 'dottian', which means 'to dot' or 'to mark with dots'.
- In the 14th century, it was commonly used to describe items that were marked or decorated with small spots.
- The use of dots in language dates back to ancient scripts, where dots were often used to denote letters or sounds.
The word 'dotted' originated from the Middle English word 'doten', meaning 'to make a dot'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the action of marking with dots or small spots. Over time, 'dotted' has evolved to also refer to patterns or designs featuring small spots or dots, becoming a commonly used term in various contexts.