maculate

UK: ˈmækjʊleɪt | US: ˈmækjəˌleɪt

Definition

  1. vt. to mark with spots; stain; blemish

  2. adj. spotted; impure

Structure
macul <spot>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

maculate = macul<spot> + ate<verb suffix>

  • macul (from Latin macula, meaning "spot" or "stain")
  • ate (a verb-forming suffix indicating action, from Latin -atus)

Etymology Origin:
The word maculate traces back to Latin macula (spot), reflecting its core meaning of marking or staining. The suffix -ate transforms it into a verb, emphasizing the action of creating spots. Over time, it evolved to describe both literal staining (e.g., dirt) and metaphorical impurity (e.g., moral blemish).

Examples

  1. The spilled ink maculated the pristine white paper.

  2. His reputation was maculated by false accusations.

  3. The artist deliberately maculated the canvas to create texture.

  4. The surgeon’s gloves must remain unmaculeted to ensure sterility.

  5. Over time, pollution maculated the marble statue’s surface.