spotted

adjective

spot·​ted ˈspä-təd 

1

: marked with spots

2

: being sullied : tarnished

3

: characterized by the appearance of spots

Synonyms

• dappled
• dapple
• dotted
• flecked
• freckled
• mottled
• specked
• speckled
• splotchy
• spotty
• stippled
• variegated

Examples of spotted in a Sentence

the spotted tablecloth clashed with the stripes on the wallpaper

not surprisingly, the white cow and black bull had a spotted calf

Recent Examples on the Web

Anyone who comes across a spotted lanternfly is advised to squish it. —Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 11 Mar. 2024

This past weekend, the spotted beagle Snoopy, star of the Peanuts comics and cartoons, found himself at the center of a political whirlwind. —Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 7 Oct. 2024

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the spotted lanternfly can cause damage, including oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling, and dieback to trees, crops, vines, and other plants. —Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 4 Oct. 2024

Here's how to identify and get rid of spotted lanternflies in your yard and beyond with natural, non-toxic methods. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spotted

• northern spotted owl
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• spotted alfalfa aphid
• spotted cucumber beetle
• spotted dick
• spotted fever
• spotted hyena
• spotted knapweed
• spotted lantern fly
• spotted owl
• spotted salamander
• spotted sea trout
• spotted turtle
• two-spotted spider mite

Kids Definition

spotted

adjective

spot·​ted

ˈspät-əd

: marked with spots

a spotted cat