dotted
|dot-ted|
🇺🇸
/ˈdɑtɪd/
🇬🇧
/ˈdɒtɪd/
(dot)
small round mark
Etymology
'dotted' derives from the adjective/verb 'dot', which comes from Middle English 'dot(t)e' or 'dotte', probably of imitative origin meaning 'a small spot'.
'dot' appeared in Middle English as 'dot(t)e'/'dotte' and, with regular verb formation, formed the past tense and past participle 'dotted' in Modern English by adding the -ed suffix.
Originally referring simply to 'a small spot' or 'a little mark', the term extended to describe things marked with such spots and the action of making those spots; the basic sense of 'small mark/spot' has been retained.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
past tense or past participle form of 'dot' — to place small marks, spots, or points on something, or to place small items at intervals (e.g., 'He dotted the map with pins').
She dotted the map with red pins to show her travels.
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Adjective 1
marked with a pattern or arrangement of small points or spots; sprinkled or studded with dots (e.g., 'a dotted dress', 'a dotted line').
She wore a dotted dress to the party.
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Adjective 2
intermittent or scattered in position; occurring at intervals (e.g., 'the road is dotted with trees').
The coastline is dotted with small fishing villages.
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Last updated: 2025/11/03 12:39