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

• dotted
• flecked
• freckled
• mottled
• specked
• speckled
• splotchy
• spotted
• spotty
• stippled
• variegated

Examples of dappled in a Sentence

a forest that was vibrant with the dappled foliage of autumn

Recent Examples on the Web

This creeping groundcover thrives in dappled shade and is a good choice for the front of a perennial border or growing between trees and shrubs in a woodland garden. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025

The dappled pink clouds in Washington around the Tidal Basin draw residents and tourists annually for a rite of spring. —Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 26 Mar. 2025

If possible, move the plant outside and place it in a spot with dappled light. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2025

Too Much Sunlight In their native environment of Central and South American jungles, peace lilies grow on the jungle floor beneath the dappled light that comes through the tree canopy. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Dec. 2024

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