Definition

A small pit or scar on a surface, often caused by disease or damage.

Example

The old building's walls were covered in pockmarks from years of weathering.

Conversation

Have you noticed those pockmarks on the wall in my living room?

Yeah, I saw them — they look like they’ve been there for ages.

I think they were caused by some old water damage.

That makes sense. We should probably get that fixed soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make small holes or marks on a surface, often resembling scars or pits.

Example

The harsh weather conditions can pockmark the surface of the rocks over time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the storm pockmarked the old walls of the barn?

Yeah, it really changed the whole look of the place.

I didn’t think weather could pockmark something so quickly.

Root Explanation

Pockmark → It is formed from "pock" (from Middle English *pokke*, meaning a pimple or sore) and "mark" (from Old English *mearc*, meaning a boundary or sign). A pockmark refers to a mark or scar left on the skin, typically from a pock or sore.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pock' as a pimple or sore that leaves a 'mark' on the skin, helping you remember that a pockmark is a scar or indentation left by such blemishes.

Visually Confused Words