as in sprinkling
to mark with small spots especially unevenly
sunlight dappled the canopy of vines over our heads
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Recent Examples of dappling
Rumours break like waves in some nameless river, dappling our sleeves with falsehood.
—
Literary Hub, 28 May 2026
The ballpark’s roof was open, the sun still dappling the downtown Miami skyline beyond left field at the start -- a beautiful tableau.
—Greg Cote
updated March 27, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
In my mind, that always meant at least a plane ride's worth of travel—me in safari gear, sunlight dappling through the canopy, and swinging vines overhead.
—Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2026
Literary Hub, 28 May 2026
The ballpark’s roof was open, the sun still dappling the downtown Miami skyline beyond left field at the start -- a beautiful tableau.
—Greg Cote
updated March 27, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
In my mind, that always meant at least a plane ride's worth of travel—me in safari gear, sunlight dappling through the canopy, and swinging vines overhead.
—Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dappling
Verb
-
Clean the oven racks separately by spraying them with white vinegar and sprinkling them with baking soda.—
Olivia McIntosh,
Martha Stewart,
13 June 2026
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During Tuesday’s practice, which was the first of three on-field sessions this week, the Dolphins opened up the play-action game during the first 11-on-11 period by sprinkling in some running plays.—
Omar Kelly,
Miami Herald,
2 June 2026
Verb
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Start with a clear glitter base, then use a dotting tool to create white daisies with pink and orange centers.—
Rebecca Norris,
InStyle,
8 June 2026
-
Among the historic attractions dotting Route 66, there may be none more hapless and ill fated as the Aztec Hotel in Monrovia.—
Assistant Editor,
Los Angeles Times,
30 May 2026
Verb
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Natural stone can be more involved; it should be sealed before grouting and can require upkeep to protect against staining.—
Angelika Pokovba,
Martha Stewart,
12 June 2026
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Keep in mind that heat can also contribute to staining.—
Jessica Safavimehr,
Southern Living,
12 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Dappling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dappling. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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