polka dot

[ poh-kuh ]

noun

, Textiles.

1. a dot or round spot (printed, woven, or embroidered) repeated to form a pattern on a textile fabric.
2. a pattern of or a fabric with such dots.

polka dot

noun

1. one of a pattern of small circular regularly spaced spots on a fabric
2. 1. a fabric or pattern with such spots
   2. ( as modifier )

      a polka-dot dress

Other Words From

• polka-dotted polka-dot adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of polka dot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Word History and Origins

Origin of polka dot¹

C19: of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

My earliest memories of fashion would be getting a red polka dot dress for Easter and refusing to take it off.

From Los Angeles Times

“My earliest memories of fashion would be getting a red polka dot dress for Easter and refusing to take it off.”

From Los Angeles Times

Her parents were big participants in Mobile Mardi Gras, each in a parading organization — her mom a Polka Dot, her dad a Striper — and they brought the party to the Island most every weekend.

From Salon

And then you see the polka dot dress when she fights — she's angry now, so there's these spots of anger.

From Salon

An 11-year-old girl sits under a beach umbrella in red lipstick and a polka dot bathing suit.

From New York Times

Related Words

• daub
• mottle
• smudge
• speckle