'dimple' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'dimpel', probably of imitative or descriptive origin (sound-symbolic) rather than from a clear prefix/root.

'dimple' changed from the Middle English form 'dimpel' and later stabilized in modern English as 'dimple' (with the adjectival/past participle form 'dimpled').

Initially, it referred to 'a small depression or hollow'; over time it retained this basic sense and is now commonly used for small natural indentations (especially on cheeks) and similar hollows on surfaces.