mottled
UK: ˈmɒtld | US: ˈmɑːtld
adj. marked with spots or patches of different colors or shades
adj. having a variegated or irregular appearance
mottled = mottle<spot> + ed<adjective suffix>
- mottle (from late 16th c., likely derived from motley<multicolored> or Dutch mot<speck>)
- ed (suffix forming adjectives, indicating possession of a quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word mottled traces back to mottle, which emerged in English influenced by motley (a fabric of mixed colors) or Dutch mot (a speck or stain). The suffix -ed transforms it into an adjective, describing surfaces with irregular color patterns. The term vividly captures the visual effect of scattered spots or blotches.
The mottled leaves of the plant blended perfectly with the forest floor.
His mottled skin showed signs of prolonged sun exposure.
The artist used a sponge to create a mottled effect on the canvas.
The mottled feathers of the owl provided excellent camouflage.
Over time, the old book’s pages became mottled with age spots.