marbling

American  

[mahr-bling] / ˈmɑr blɪŋ /

noun

1. the act, process, or art of coloring or staining in imitation of variegated marble.

2. an appearance like that of variegated marble.

3. the intermixture of fat with lean in a cut of meat, which contributes to flavor and tenderness.

4. Bookbinding. marblelike decoration on the paper edges, lining, or binding boards of a book.

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marbling British  

/ ˈmɑːblɪŋ /

noun

1. a mottled effect or pattern resembling marble

2. such an effect obtained by transferring floating colours from a bath of gum solution

3. the streaks of fat in lean meat

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Etymology

Origin of marbling

First recorded in 1680–90; marble + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

This heritage breed is prized for its marbling, tenderness, and genuinely great flavor.

From Salon

Not only does estrogen encourage fat burning, but it also promotes greater fat storage within muscles—marbling if you will—which makes that fat's energy more readily available.

From Scientific American

Over the past five years, her ranch has made a significant investment in the production of a growing herd of Wagyu — cows originally raised in Japan that are famous for their extraordinary marbling and tenderness.

From New York Times

Almost a decade ago, they began researching paper marbling: Drops of ink — swirled, warped, stretched in water and then transferred onto paper — capture patterns akin to those found in rock that has transformed into marble.

From New York Times

Others included marbling using carrageen moss or jewels or gold to signify their intended owners’ wealth and status.

From Washington Post