pockmarked
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpɒkˌmɑːkt/
KK: /ˈpɑkˌmɑrkt/
adjective
Definition
Describing a surface that has small holes or marks, often as a result of damage or disease.
Example
The old building had pockmarked walls that showed signs of age and neglect.
Conversation
Did you see that old building downtown?
Yeah, it looks really pockmarked and worn down.
I wonder how long it's been like that.
Probably for years — it's kind of a shame, really.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pitted
scarred
dimpled
Antonyms
smooth
even
unblemished
verb
Definition
To mark or scar a surface with small pits or holes, often as a result of damage or disease.
Example
The old building was pockmarked from years of neglect and weathering.
Tense Forms
Past: pockmarked
Past Participle: pockmarked
Conversation
Did you see that old building downtown?
Yeah, it looks so pockmarked from years of neglect.
It's a shame because it used to be so beautiful.
Root Explanation
Pockmarked → It is formed from "pock" (from Middle English *pokke*, meaning a small mark or pimple) and "-marked" (meaning having marks). The word describes a surface that is marked with small indentations or blemishes, resembling pockmarks.
Memory Tip
Think of small 'marks' ('-marked') on a surface that resemble 'pock' or pimples — that's why pockmarked means having such small indentations.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.