dimple

1 of 2

noun

dim·​ple ˈdim-pəl 

1

anatomy : a slight natural indentation in the surface of some part of the human body

noticed his dimples when he smiled

2

: a depression or indentation on a surface (as of a golf ball)

dimply

ˈdim-p(ə-)lē 

adjective

dimple

2 of 2

verb

dimpled; dimpling ˈdim-p(ə-)liŋ 

transitive verb

: to mark with dimples

a baby's dimpled hands

intransitive verb

: to exhibit or form dimples

Examples of dimple in a Sentence

Noun

She noticed his dimples when he smiled.

the dimples on a golf ball

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

That plate has 20,000 very small dimples on its surface. —Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 7 Dec. 2024

The steering wheel also features some physical toggles and touch points identified by dimples in the trim. —Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press, 12 Nov. 2024

Verb

Observe the bare dirt spots dimpled across the lawn. —Paul Cappiello, The Courier-Journal, 17 May 2024

Although more research is needed, results can last six months or more, however dimpling usually returns. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 28 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun and Verb

Middle English dympull; akin to Old High German tumphilo whirlpool, Old English dyppan to dip — more at dip

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1602, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

dimple

1 of 2 noun

dim·​ple ˈdim-pəl 

1

: a slight natural indentation in the surface of some part of the human body (as the chin)

2

: a slight hollow

the dimples on a golf ball

dimple

2 of 2 verb

dimpled; dimpling -p(ə-)liŋ 

: to mark with or form dimples

Medical Definition

dimple

1 of 2 noun

dim·​ple ˈdim-pəl 

: a slight natural indentation or hollow in the surface of some part of the human body (as on a cheek or the chin)

dimple

2 of 2 verb

dimpled; dimpling -p(ə-)liŋ 

transitive verb

: to mark with dimples

intransitive verb

: to exhibit or form dimples