flecked

Flecked is an adjective used to describe a surface or material that displays small patches, specks, or spots of a contrasting color or substance. The flecks are typically irregular in size, shape, and distribution, creating a speckled or mottled appearance. The term is widely used across disciplines to denote patterns that are not uniform but marked by contrasting fragments.

In textiles and fashion, flecked fabrics incorporate short, differently colored fibers or dye variations to produce irregular spots or specks. Flecked finishes are common in wool, tweed, and knitwear, where the pattern can range from subtle to pronounced. In ceramics and glass, flecked glazes or inclusions yield speckled surfaces after firing or cooling.

In biology and natural history, flecked describes patterns on animals, plants, and shells. An animal coat or feather might be described as flecked if it includes small contrasting patches. Leaves or petals can be flecked with spots or blotches. The term is descriptive rather than taxonomic and does not imply a specific lineage or function.

In geology and mineralogy, flecked describes rocks or minerals that show visible inclusions or contrasting grains, such as marble or granite that contains flecks of other minerals. In art and architecture, flecked surfaces can be intentional design elements, used to mimic natural stone or add visual texture.

Overall, flecked conveys a characteristic of visual texture defined by scattered, small patches of differing color or material, rather than a uniform color field.