fleck
UK: flek | US: flek
n. a small patch of color or light; a tiny spot or mark
vt. to mark or dot with small spots
The word "fleck" traces back to Old Norse flekkr, meaning "spot" or "stain." It entered Middle English as fleck, retaining its core meaning of a small mark or patch. Unlike many words with clear Latin or Greek roots, "fleck" is a compact Germanic term, reflecting its straightforward, vivid imagery—a tiny, noticeable blemish or highlight. Its simplicity makes it memorable and versatile in describing natural or artificial spots (e.g., flecks of paint, sunlight).
Her dark hair had golden flecks that shimmered in the sun.
The artist flecked the canvas with blue to mimic a starry sky.
A fleck of dirt on the lens ruined the photograph.
The granite countertop had tiny flecks of silver throughout.
He noticed a fleck of green in the otherwise brown iris of her eye.