motley
|mot/ley|
🇺🇸
/ˈmɑːtli/
🇬🇧
/ˈmɒtli/
varied and diverse
Etymology
'motley' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'motlei', where 'mot' meant 'speck' or 'spot'.
'motlei' transformed into the modern English word 'motley'.
Initially, it meant 'speckled' or 'spotted', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'variegated' or 'diverse'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a mixture of incongruous elements.
The festival was a motley of sounds, sights, and smells.
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Adjective 1
having a variety of colors; variegated.
The motley quilt was a patchwork of vibrant colors.
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Adjective 2
composed of diverse, often incongruous elements.
The motley crew of adventurers set out on their journey.
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Last updated: 2025/01/24 10:11