splotch
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /splɒtʃ/
KK: /splɑtʃ/
noun
Definition
A mark or area that is irregularly shaped, often a stain or a splash of color.
Example
The artist used bright splotches of paint to create a vibrant mural.
Conversation
Did you see the splotch of paint on the wall?
Yeah, it really stands out against the white background.
I wonder what color they used for that splotch.
It looks like a mix of blue and green — pretty unique!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blot
stain
spot
Antonyms
cleanliness
purity
clarity
transitive verb
Definition
To mark something with irregular spots or stains.
Example
She decided to splotch the canvas with bright colors for her painting.
Tense Forms
Past: splotched
Past Participle: splotched
Conversation
I tried to paint the wall, but I accidentally splotched it everywhere.
Oh no! That sounds messy; did you use a roller?
Yeah, but I guess I wasn't careful enough with the paint.
Root Explanation
The word 'splotch' originates from the dialectal English 'splotch', meaning a blot or stain. It is likely imitative of the sound made when something is splattered or smeared, reflecting its meaning of a messy mark or spot.
Memory Tip
Imagine a messy mark or stain that makes a 'splotching' sound when it lands — that's how you can remember that 'splotch' refers to a blot or stain.
Visually Confused Words
splatch
sloth
potch
splatchy