Maculated

Maculated is an adjective used primarily in scientific description to indicate a surface, organism, or structure marked with spots or blotches. The term derives from the Latin macula, meaning "spot" or "stain," with the suffix -atus forming an adjective meaning "provided with spots" or "spotted." Maculated describes patterns that are typically irregular, variable in size, and contrasted with the background.

In zoology and botany, maculated patterns are used to describe coloration and markings that include discrete dark or pigmented spots. For example, a maculated leaf displays conspicuous spots; a maculated animal coat shows blotches or speckling. In dermatology and medicine, maculated lesions are areas of skin discoloration without elevation or depression, such as macules in conditions like freckles or birthmarks. In zoological descriptions, maculation can be a diagnostic trait used to distinguish species or individuals.

The term is often used descriptively rather than prescriptive, and may be combined with other pattern descriptors (e.g., maculated with irregular, staining, or variegated markings). Maculation is the corresponding noun for the spots themselves. The usage varies by taxonomic group and author, and some contributors may prefer more precise terms such as speckled, spotted, or variegated when documenting patterns.