mote
UK: məʊt | US: moʊt
n. a tiny piece of a substance; a speck or particle
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The word "mote" traces back to Old English mot, meaning "a speck or particle," likely derived from Proto-Germanic mutōną ("to crumble"). It shares roots with Dutch mot (dust) and German Motte (moth, originally referring to tiny insects). The word's persistence in English reflects its vivid imagery—a minuscule, often floating particle, famously used in the biblical phrase "mote in the eye." Its compact form and ancient lineage classify it as a non-splittable residue word.
A mote of dust drifted through the sunlight.
She brushed a mote from her sleeve with a frown.
The old book released motes when opened.
His criticism was but a mote compared to her own flaws.
The air shimmered with golden motes in the afternoon light.