NYT Dictionary

MOTTLE

/ˈmɑ.təl/
VerbNounMOT-tlemot-tle · 2 syllablesAdvanced/Professional

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026

Meaning

To mark with blotches of different color, or shades of color, as if stained; to spot; to maculate.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

1670-80. Probably back-formation from motley.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

streakblotchdapplecloudbandbespanglebespecklebirthmarkblazeblemish

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 9 recorded puzzles:

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