dimple

American  

[dim-puhl] / ˈdɪm pəl /

noun

1. a small, natural hollow area or crease, permanent or transient, in some soft part of the human body, especially one formed in the cheek in smiling.

2. any similar slight depression.

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verb (used with object)

dimpled, dimpling

1. to mark with or as if with dimples; produce dimples in.

   A smile dimpled her face.

2. Metalworking.

   1. to dent (a metal sheet) so as to permit use of bolts or rivets with countersunk heads.

   2. to mark (a metal object) with a drill point as a guide for further drilling.

verb (used without object)

dimpled, dimpling

1. to form or show dimples.

dimple British  

/ ˈdɪmpəl /

noun

1. a small natural dent or crease in the flesh, esp on the cheeks or chin

2. any slight depression in a surface

3. a bubble or dent in glass

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verb

1. to make or become dimpled

2. (intr) to produce dimples by smiling

Other Word Forms

• dimply adjective
• undimpled adjective

Etymology

Origin of dimple

1350–1400; Middle English dimpel, Old English *dympel; cognate with German Tümpel pool

Example Sentences

“I do love babies so. Why, just last week I was tending the sweetest little cherub you can imagine, all dimples and velvety skin and cute little burpie-wurpies.”

From Literature

During the campaign Mr. Mamdani was the warm, embracing fellow with the dimpled smile who loved everyone with an undifferentiated warmth.

From The Wall Street Journal

So far this year, by slapping a little white dimpled ball around in the grass, he has won $19.2 million.

From Los Angeles Times

Being a refugee is as central to the character as the cheek dimples and the broad chest.

From Salon

A bow-tied waiter appeared out of nowhere, his dark hair smoothed back to reveal soft brown eyes and an easy, dimpled smile.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• divot