splotch

[ sploch ]

noun

1. a large, irregular spot; blot; stain; blotch.

verb (used with object)

1. to mark or cover with splotches.

verb (used without object)

1. to be susceptible to stains or blots; show or retain stains, blots, or spots of dirt or liquid:

   Don't buy that tablecloth—the material splotches easily.

2. to cause or be liable to cause stains, blots, or spots:

   Be careful of that paint—it splotches.

splotch

/ splɒtʃ /

noun

1. the usual US word for splodge

Derived Forms

• ˈsplotchy, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of splotch¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of splotch¹

C17: perhaps a blend of spot + blotch

Example Sentences

A lone splotch of orange poppies was also visible.

From Los Angeles Times

A lone splotch of orange poppies was also visible.

From Los Angeles Times

Doc pulled a pen from his shirt pocket and outlined the outer edge of a fuzzy, misshapen splotch about the size of my thumb.

From Salon

About the size of my thumbprint, gray with white and black bands and a distinctive orange splotch on its wing, I almost missed it.

From National Geographic

He held it defiantly, waiting for the camera to zoom in on his folded brown splotch.

From Slate

Related Words

• blob
• blotch
• fleck
• smudge