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
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
Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dappling
Verb
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Neutralize Trash Can Odors Cut odors from the kitchen trash by periodically sprinkling baking soda in as waste accumulates.—
Melissa Locker,
Southern Living,
15 Mar. 2026
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For instance, sprinkling cinnamon around entry points while also using a vinegar spray can help create a double barrier against ants attempting to infiltrate your home.—
Alexandra Kelly,
Martha Stewart,
13 Mar. 2026
Verb
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With mostly sunny skies, lots of 70 degree highs will be dotting the Eastern Plains for Tuesday.—
Dave Aguilera,
CBS News,
17 Mar. 2026
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Large windows offered bright blue sea views as light poured in, with sunbathers dotting the sand below and the Cagarras Islands floating in green blobs on the horizon beyond.—
Laura French,
TheWeek,
16 Mar. 2026
Verb
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There are a few options to deal with old brickwork, including cleaning and repairing the brick, painting or staining the brick, or even installing new siding or stucco over the brick.—
Timothy Dale,
The Spruce,
13 Mar. 2026
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Sealing your grout is a great way to prevent further staining and using a steam cleaner or steam mop can help to lift the stains.—
Ashlyn Needham,
Southern Living,
13 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Dappling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dappling. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.
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