Definition

Spots or patches of different colors or shades on a surface.

Example

The artist used mottling to create a unique texture on the canvas.

Conversation

Have you seen the new painting in the gallery?

Yes, the mottling in the colors is so beautiful!

I know, right? It adds such depth to the artwork.

Exactly! I love how the mottling gives it a unique character.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To mark or color something with spots or blotches of different shades or colors.

Example

The artist used a technique of mottling to create a unique texture on the canvas.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you seen that painting with the beautiful mottling effects?

Yeah, it's amazing how the colors blend together.

I love how it creates depth with the mottling technique.

Root Explanation

Mottling → It is formed from "mottle" (from Middle English *motlen*, meaning to mark with spots or blotches) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or process). The word "mottling" refers to the process of marking or being marked with spots or blotches.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of marking something with spots or blotches, which is what "mottling" describes.

Visually Confused Words