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Speckle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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speckle

[ˈspɛk(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in nature

A small spot or mark, especially one of a number made on a surface.

Synonyms

dot, mark, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
speckle

Used to describe a small, often irregularly shaped spot or a pattern of such spots, frequently found on surfaces.

  • The bird's eggs were pale blue with brown speckles
spot

Commonly used to denote a small area that is different in color or texture from the surrounding surface. This term applies broadly and can refer to various types of blemishes or stains.

  • He found a spot of ink on his shirt
mark

Used to indicate a visible trace or impression on a surface, which can be left deliberately or accidentally. Often has a more general application.

  • She left a mark on the wall with her pencil
dot

Used to refer to a small, round spot, often seen as part of a pattern or a single instance. Common in descriptions of punctuation or graphical elements.

  • Connect the dots to see the hidden picture

Examples of usage

  • The bird's egg had speckles of different colors on it.
  • The night sky was speckled with stars.
Context #2 | Verb

in painting

Cover with small spots or marks.

Synonyms

dot, mark, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
speckle

Used to describe a surface that has many small, scattered spots, often in a random pattern.

  • The eggshell was speckled with tiny brown spots
  • Her shirt was speckled with paint after the art project
spot

Used to describe a small area that differs in color or texture from its surroundings, can also imply a specific place or location.

  • There was a large spot of ink on the tablecloth
  • This is my favorite spot to sit in the park
mark

A general term for any kind of visible impression or trace on a surface, often used to denote something left intentionally or as an indicator.

  • He left a mark on the paper with his pen
  • The teacher made a mark on the student's test to show where corrections were needed
dot

Used to describe a very small, round mark, often singular or in a simple arrangement.

  • She placed a dot of glue on the paper
  • The map had a red dot indicating the location of the restaurant

Examples of usage

  • She speckled the canvas with various shades of blue and green.
  • The artist speckled the wall with splashes of color.

Translations

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

Origin of 'speckle'

The word 'speckle' originated from Middle English 'speckel', which is related to the Dutch word 'speckel' and the Old High German word 'spehhal'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The term has evolved over time to refer to small spots or marks found on various surfaces, both in nature and in human creations.

See also: speck, speckled, speckles, speckling, specks.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,501, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.