The word "mottled" is spelled with two consonants in a row, "tt", which may be confusing for some spellers. However, it is actually quite easy to spell if you know IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription. The first syllable is "mot", which is pronounced like "maht" (mɒt). The second syllable is "tled", which is pronounced like "tuld" (tld). This helps to understand the double "t" in the middle of the word. Mottled means marked or spotted with different shades or colors.
Mottled is an adjective used to describe something that has irregular patches or spots of different colors or shades. It is often used to refer to the appearance of certain objects, surfaces, or living organisms that display random or uneven patterns of coloring.
In terms of objects, a mottled surface can refer to one that shows a combination of varied colors or tones that are not evenly distributed. For example, a mottled stone may have patches of different shades of gray or brown, giving it a speckled or marbled appearance.
Regarding living organisms, mottled is often associated with the skin or fur of animals. An animal with a mottled coat might have patches or spots of different hues, creating a distinct and recognizable pattern. This pattern can serve as camouflage in nature or be a unique characteristic that distinguishes the creature.
Mottling can also describe the appearance of surfaces subjected to certain processes or treatments. For instance, mottled glass refers to a type of glass that displays irregularly distributed areas of translucency or opaqueness, offering a distinct aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the term "mottled" is used to convey the irregular, patchy, or spotted appearance of an object, surface, or living organism that exhibits variation in color or shade.
Marked with irregular spots or streaks of different colours.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mottled" originated from the Middle English term "motle", which meant a distinctive pattern of various colored spots or patches. It was derived from the Old French word "motele", which also meant variegated or spotted with different colors. The Old French term, in turn, comes from the Latin word "macula", meaning spot or stain. The term "mottled" has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something with irregularly colored or patterned spots or marks.