flyspeck
Elementary (A2)
IPA: //ˈflaɪˌspɛk//
KK: /ˈflaɪˌspɛk/
noun
Definition
A very small and often unimportant mark or spot, especially one caused by fly droppings.
Example
The wall was covered in flyspecks that were hard to notice unless you looked closely.
Conversation
Did you see that flyspeck on the wall?
Yeah, it’s so small, you could easily miss it.
I wonder how something so insignificant can be so annoying.
Right? It just stands out for no reason!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
speck
dot
blemish
Antonyms
whole
entirety
significance
transitive verb
Definition
To mark something with small spots or blemishes, often referring to tiny stains or imperfections.
Example
The old painting was flyspecked, making it look less valuable.
Tense Forms
Past: flyspecked
Past Participle: flyspecked
Conversation
Did you see how dirty the windows are after the storm?
Yeah, they really need to be cleaned.
I think I might flyspeck them if I don’t get to it soon.
Root Explanation
Flyspeck is formed from "fly" (from Old English *flēoge*, meaning a small flying insect) and "speck" (from Middle English *speke*, meaning a small spot or stain). The word "flyspeck" refers to a tiny spot or blemish, often resembling the size of a fly.
Memory Tip
Think of a small 'fly' (a tiny insect) and a 'speck' (a tiny spot) to remember that 'flyspeck' means a tiny blemish or spot.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.