Speck: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'speck' when referring to a very small amount or a tiny piece of something, often indicating that it is barely noticeable.

• There was just a speck of dust on the mirror
• He didn't leave a speck of food on his plate

Use 'spot' to describe a small, round area that is different in color or appearance from its surroundings, often implying a small stain or a mark.

• There was a spot of ink on the paper
• She noticed a red spot on her dress

Use 'dot' for describing a small round mark, typically used in writing, drawing, or describing very small, circular shapes.

• She added a dot to the end of her sentence
• The ladybug had red dots on its back

Use 'particle' mainly in scientific or technical contexts when referring to a very small portion of matter, often invisible to the naked eye.

• Physics studies the behavior of subatomic particles
• A particle of dust floated in the sunlight

Use 'grain' when referring to small particles of a substance, such as sand, salt, or cereals, or in the context of texture in materials like wood.

• She felt a grain of sand between her toes
• The wood's grain was smooth and polished

Typically used to describe a tiny spot or small amount of something, often dirt or dust. It usually carries a neutral or slightly negative connotation.

• There was not a speck of dust in the room.
• She noticed a tiny speck of dirt on her shirt.

Often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe a very small piece or fragment of something. It is a neutral term.

• Scientists are studying particles to understand the basics of matter.
• The air filter can catch even the smallest particles of dust.

Commonly used in medical or technical situations to describe something that is not naturally part of a specific system or environment and may cause harm or irritation.

• The doctors removed a foreign body from the patient's eye.
• The machine stopped working because a foreign body got into the system.

A small spot, mark, or piece of something.

• There's a speck of dust on the table
• He noticed a speck of dirt on his shirt

Speaking very softly, especially for the purpose of secrecy.

• She whispered the answer to her friend
• He leaned in and whispered in her ear

Speaking softly and indistinctly, often used to describe collective soft noise or quiet speech.

• The crowd murmured in agreement
• He murmured a few words of comfort

Speaking quietly and unclearly, often out of nervousness or lack of confidence.

• He mumbled his response during the interview
• She mumbled something under her breath