dotted

American  

[dot-id] / ˈdɒt ɪd /

adjective

1. marked with a dot or dots.

2. consisting or constructed of dots.

3. having objects scattered or placed in a random manner.

   a landscape dotted with small houses.

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dotted British  

/ ˈdɒtɪd /

adjective

1. having dots, esp having a pattern of dots

2. music

   1. (of a note) increased to one and a half times its original time value See dot 1

   2. (of a musical rhythm) characterized by dotted notes Compare double-dotted See also notes inégales

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Other Word Forms

• undotted adjective

Etymology

Origin of dotted

First recorded in 1765–75; dot ¹ + -ed ³

Example Sentences

From the early days of the republic to the Vietnam War, America’s past is dotted with instances when people skipped taxes to object to bigger issues, she said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

We saw Lime e-scooters dotted around Salford this week - but they can't be used in neighbouring Manchester city centre.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

While rare earths will be the primary focus, exploration will also assess the potential for gold mining — the area is dotted with old, small-scale adits and shafts.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

My face was also dotted with bright, red bites that accompanied my pubescent pimples.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

As the guest of honor, Roosevelt led a parade of important politicians and diplomats down a wide boulevard dotted with palm trees.

From "Death on the River of Doubt" by Samantha Seiple