Speckling: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe small, fine spots or marks that appear on a surface. It implies a light, scattered application, often randomly placed.

• The artist added a speckling of white paint to create the illusion of snow on the trees in her painting

Used to describe small, often irregular spots or patches, usually to indicate minor imperfections or a subtle pattern. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation if it suggests unwanted spots.

• The countertop had flecking of black and grey, giving it a natural stone appearance

This word is appropriate when referring to making small, distinct marks or dots on a surface. It suggests intentional placement of dots, often in a regular or deliberate pattern.

• She was dotting her i's carefully in the handwritten letter

Best used when describing random splashes or drops of a liquid or substance being thrown or scattered. It often conveys a more forceful, messy application, sometimes with negative undertones.

• After the car went through the puddle, there was a spattering of mud all over the side

Though this word was mistakenly repeated, the context remains the same as the first instance. It signifies a surface covered with small dots or spots.

• The baker's apron had speckling of flour after a long day of work.

Use 'spotting' to refer to isolated or individual small spots occurring sporadically over an area. It is often used to describe things like spotting on clothes, paper, or during observational tasks.

• There's some spotting on my shirt from the spilled coffee.
• Astronomers spent the night spotting distant stars with their telescopes.

This word describes a surface that has a pattern of irregular spots or patches of different colors or shades. It often has a more organic or natural connotation, and is used for things like skin, leaves, or fabrics.

• The autumn leaves showed a beautiful mottling of red, orange, and yellow.
• His skin had a strange mottling from the reaction to the medication.