Flyspeck: meaning, definitions and examples
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flyspeck
[ ˈflaɪˌspɛk ]
small mark
A flyspeck is a tiny blemish or spot on a surface, often used to describe something that is so small it can easily be overlooked. This term is commonly used in reference to imperfections on a wall, a piece of paper, or other surfaces. Flyspecks are generally considered minor and do not significantly detract from the overall quality of the object in question.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- There was a flyspeck on the canvas that was hardly noticeable.
- The page bore a flyspeck that distracted from the text.
- After close inspection, I found a flyspeck on the table.
- Her dress was lovely, though it had a tiny flyspeck on the hem.
Translations
Translations of the word "flyspeck" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pequeno erro
🇮🇳 छोटी गलती
🇩🇪 kleiner Fehler
🇮🇩 kesalahan kecil
🇺🇦 маленька помилка
🇵🇱 mały błąd
🇯🇵 小さなミス
🇫🇷 petite erreur
🇪🇸 pequeño error
🇹🇷 küçük hata
🇰🇷 작은 오류
🇸🇦 خطأ صغير
🇨🇿 malá chyba
🇸🇰 malá chyba
🇨🇳 小错误
🇸🇮 majhna napaka
🇮🇸 lítil villa
🇰🇿 кіші қате
🇬🇪 პატარა შეცდომა
🇦🇿 kiçik səhv
🇲🇽 pequeño error
Etymology
The term 'flyspeck' originates from the combination of 'fly' and 'speck'. The word 'fly' has been used to reference the small insects of the order Diptera for centuries, while 'speck' derives from the Old English 'spekka', meaning a small particle or spot. Historically, the term has been associated with the spots left behind by flies, which are small and can make an otherwise clean surface appear untidy. The metaphorical use of flyspeck to describe minor flaws or imperfections has extended beyond just insect marks, finding application in various fields such as art, literature, and even engineering. The phrase illustrates how even the smallest details can be significant, especially when assessing the quality of objects, artworks, or documents.