dappled

adjective

dap·​pled ˈda-pəld 

variants or less commonly dapple

ˈda-pəl 

: marked with small spots or patches contrasting with the background

a dappled fawn

Synonyms of dappled

• dotted

Examples of dappled in a Sentence

a forest that was vibrant with the dappled foliage of autumn

Recent Examples on the Web

Towering above the landscape and providing dappled shade are what look like large crape myrtles. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 July 2026

Their markings serve as camouflage, blending in with a dappled light pattern. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 18 July 2026

Move containers, if possible, to dappled shade under a tree or umbrella. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 17 July 2026

For optimal outdoor care, provide dappled shade and water whenever the top inch of soil is dry. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dappled

• grappled

Kids Definition

dappled

adjective

dap·​pled

ˈdap-əld

variants also dapple

: marked with numerous usually cloudy and rounded spots or patches of a color or shade different from their background

a dappled fawn

rested in the dappled shade