adjective
dappled
DAP-uld/ˈdæpld/
Marked with patches of color or light and shade.
The dappled horse has pale patches across its dark gray coat.
Etymology
The word describes contrasting spots, but its origin is uncertain. It probably comes from a Scandinavian source related to a word for “spot,” or perhaps reflects “apple-gray,” comparing a horse’s markings to an apple’s.
In context
the Golden-Vein Ancient Vine overhead had completely connected into an arch, sunlight leaking through the gaps, scattering dappled golden flecks across the ground.
More examples
- Dappled sunlight falls through the leaves onto the path.
- The fawn's dappled coat helps it blend into the woods.
- We rest in the dappled shade beneath the oak.
Forms
dappled
dapple verb — To mark with contrasting spots or patches.
Similar words
- mottled
- Emphasizes irregular patches of color rather than shifting light.
- spotted
- Usually suggests distinct spots rather than softly blended patches.