spot test

noun

1
: a test limited to a few key or sample points or a relatively small percentage of random spots
2
: a test conducted on the spot to yield immediate results

Examples of spot test in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web While there are still some people using this now-classic Nintendo hardware online, spot tests suggest that the player numbers aren't huge these days. Kyle Orland, Ars Technica, 4 Oct. 2023 To do a spot test, simply apply a small amount to the back of the wrist once a day for a few days and wait five to six days for a reaction. Sabrina Talbert, Women's Health, 12 July 2023 Note that bleach may cause discoloration on certain fabrics, so spot test an inconspicuous place before using. Alicia Chilton, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Aug. 2022 After conducting a spot test in an inconspicuous area of your deck, spray the product liberally onto your wooden deck. Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Feb. 2023 Just make sure to read the dilution instructions when measuring out the soap and spot test, too. Nancy Einhart, Travel + Leisure, 2 Mar. 2023 Always do a spot test first Though most of the cleaners recommended in this article are gentle, there is always a chance that a cleaning product could damage the color or texture of your luggage. Nancy Einhart, Travel + Leisure, 2 Mar. 2023 Then do a spot test in a small, unobtrusive location to make sure the spray won’t damage the fabric. Rena Behar, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2023 The official test for cold urticaria, as with many other allergies, is a spot test on the skin. Leah Froats, Discover Magazine, 10 Jan. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'spot test.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spot test was in 1928

Dictionary Entries Near spot test

Cite this Entry

“Spot test.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spot%20test. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!