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 Word Forms

• polka-dotted adjective
• polka-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

During closing arguments, Cardi B wore a black and white polka dot suit with a red bow, her black hair tied up.

From BBC

Its storefront, painted with polka dots and decorated with giant butterflies, sits like a cheery oasis in Gustine’s four-block downtown, a riot of green spilling from the planter boxes out front.

From Los Angeles Times

Playing and dancing on the balcony in a blue polka dot dress, she looks much younger than her age, having suffered from malnutrition in the past.

From BBC

The partnership ensured medical accuracy while incorporating diabetes awareness symbols through the clothes’ blue coloring and polka dot pattern.

From Los Angeles Times

But then I found a colorized obscure album cover of Bob in the shirt, and it was green polka dot, which even made it, I think, less attractive to Jim.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• daub 
• mottle 
• smudge 
• speckle