speckled

Speckled is an adjective used to describe surfaces, patterns, or markings that are covered with many small spots or specks. The spots are typically tiny and distributed across the area, often contrasting with the base color. The term conveys a sense of sprinkled or grainy texture rather than large, continuous patches.

In nature, speckling occurs in plumage, skin, or scales and can serve camouflage. The speckled wood butterfly (Pararge aegeria) is a well-known example, with a lightly speckled brown wing pattern that blends with dappled light. Fish such as some trout display speckled bodies, and many birds and reptiles show variable speckling as individuals age or molt. In plants, fruits and seeds may appear speckled due to pigmentation patterns.

Speckled textures also appear in geology and materials. Speckled granite contains visible mineral grains that differ in color, producing a granular appearance. In textiles and art, speckled fabrics, glazes, or coatings incorporate tiny flecks of contrasting color to create a sprinkled effect.

Speckled patterns are related to, but distinct from, spotted or mottled patterns: speckled implies many small, discrete spots; spotted usually refers to larger marks; mottled describes irregular areas of color without discrete specks. The term derives from speck, meaning a small mark or dot.