Definition

Having small spots or patches of a different color, often creating a pattern that contrasts with the background.

Example

The sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a dappled effect on the ground.

Conversation

Have you seen the garden lately?

Yeah, it looks amazing with all the flowers!

I love how the sunlight creates that dappled effect on the leaves.

It really adds a nice charm to the whole place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dappled → It originates from the Middle English word 'dapple' (meaning a spot or blotch), which is of uncertain origin but may be related to the Old Norse word 'dǫfl' (meaning a spot or speck). The word 'dappled' describes something that is marked with spots or patches of different colors.

Memory Tip

Think of a surface that is 'marked with spots' — that's what dappled means, as it refers to something having a pattern of spots or patches.

Visually Confused Words