stipple

[ stip-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, stip·pled, stip·pling.

1. to paint, engrave, or draw by means of dots or small touches.

noun

1. the method of painting, engraving, etc., by stippling.
2. stippled work; a painting, engraving, or the like, executed by means of dots or small spots.

stipple

/ ˈstɪpəl /

verb

1. to draw, engrave, or paint using dots or flecks
2. to apply paint, powder, etc, to (something) with many light dabs
3. to give (wet paint, cement, etc) a granular effect

noun

1. the technique of stippling or a picture produced by or using stippling

Derived Forms

• ˈstippler, noun

Other Words From

• stippler noun
• un·stippled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of stipple¹

1660–70; < Dutch stippelen, frequentative of stippen to dot, derivative of stip dot

Word History and Origins

Origin of stipple¹

C18: from Dutch stippelen, from stippen to prick, from stip point

Example Sentences

Microscopic chasms forming a sea of conical jagged peaks stipple the surface of a material called black silicon.

From Science Daily

Also known as acoustical stipple ceilings, they were once a popular choice for their ability to absorb sound and hide imperfections.

From Seattle Times

Every flat surface and hidey-hole of this bridge is stuffed and stippled with nests.

From Seattle Times

The sun had dipped too, leaving a trail of stippled oranges and purples on the horizon.

From Literature

I introduced a forehead piece to the existing Stage 3 look and added old-age stipple around the eyes, along with eyebrow hair pieces.

From Los Angeles Times