Synonyms of dapple

dapple 1 of 2

noun

ˈda-pəl 

as in fleck

a small area that is different (as in color) from the main part

the clouds threw dapples of shadow over the eerily quiet street

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fleck
• dot
• speck
• blotch
• patch
• stain
• mottle
• speckle
• spot
• splotch
• smudge
• pip
• eyespot
• smear
• freckle
• mole
• splash
• birthmark
• point
• blot
• blob
• mark
• spatter
• polka dot
• smutch

dapple

2 of 2

verb

as in to sprinkle

to mark with small spots especially unevenly

sunlight dappled the canopy of vines over our heads

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sprinkle
• dot
• stain
• fleck
• marble
• pepper
• dye
• speckle
• spot
• speck
• mottle
• blotch
• freckle
• stipple
• splotch
• stripe
• blot
• shoot
• streak
• intersperse
• stud
• bar
• band
• spatter
• set
• bespatter

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of dapple

Noun

In the prelude to a November ballot featuring the candidate synonymous with polarization, all the dapple and nuance of life is once again being reduced to a binary. — Karl Vick, TIME, 2 July 2024

The building's neo-Gothic domes and spires were lit up against the indigo night, creating Impressionist dapples on the river. — Lina Mounzer, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Apr. 2023

Verb

The eight-year-old girl sat obediently for her portrait, her hair dappled in light against foliage. — Literary Hub, 17 July 2026

Let the plant recover in bright, indirect or dappled sunlight for a week, then gradually move it back into more light. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 29 June 2026