dapple
UK[ˈdæp(ə)l]US[ˈdæp(ə)l]
v
To mark or become marked with rounded spots of a different color or shade.
n
A patch or spot of a different color or shade, especially one of a number on an animal's skin or coat.
Etymology
The word 'dapple' first appeared in English in the late 14th century, likely as a back-formation from the earlier adjective 'dappled'. Its ultimate origin is obscure but is thought to be related to Old Norse 'depill', meaning 'spot' or 'blot', or perhaps to a Low German word. The core logic of the word has always been associated with irregular spotting or mottling, particularly on animals. This meaning has remained remarkably stable, evolving from a descriptive term for animal coats to a verb describing the process of creating such a spotted pattern, as seen in light filtering through leaves "dappling" the ground.
Analysis
The word 'dapple' is a simplex word of uncertain, likely Germanic origin. It is not productively formed from smaller, identifiable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
The sunlight dappled the forest floor through the canopy.
The horse had a beautiful grey coat with darker dapples.
Her dress was dappled with paint from the artist's studio.