blotchy

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/ˈblɑːtʃi/
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Marked by irregular patches of colour or texture, most often on skin but also on surfaces such as paint, fabric, paper, or light.

Examples

  • The blotchy paint needed a second coat.
  • A rash left his arms red and blotchy.
  • Clouds made the afternoon light look blotchy on the wall.
  • The fabric had a blotchy pattern of blue and grey.
  • The old photograph had faded into blotchy patches.

Similar words

uneven
speckled
mottled
dappled
patchy
spotted
splotchy

Meanings

Usage

Use blotchy for visible patchiness, and choose words like uneven, irregular, or inconsistent when no patches or marks are involved.

Common mistakes

Blotchyly is not the normal adverb, and the blotchy of should usually be the blotchiness of or the blotchy pattern of.

Etymology

From blotch plus -y, recorded from the late eighteenth century for something disfigured with blotches.

FAQ

What does blotchy mean?

Blotchy means marked with irregular patches of colour or texture, especially on skin or a visible surface.

Can blotchy describe things other than skin?

Yes. Blotchy can describe paint, fabric, paper, clouds, light, or any surface with uneven patches.

Is blotchy an adjective?

Yes. Blotchy is an adjective. Related nouns include blotch and blotchiness.

What is the difference between blotchy and mottled?

Blotchy suggests irregular patches, while mottled often suggests a more blended or speckled pattern.

What are synonyms for blotchy?

Synonyms of blotchy include patchy, splotchy, mottled, spotted, speckled, and uneven.

Where does blotchy come from?

Blotchy comes from blotch plus -y, with records from the late eighteenth century.

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