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.

---

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

---

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 • Dec. 4, 2025

Does it require attention to marbling and dry aging?

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2025

The psychedelic swirls of the marbling infinity puzzles might seem daunting, he added, but there are zones of color that lead the way, one piece to the next.

From New York Times • Dec. 9, 2022

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

From Washington Post • Dec. 3, 2022

Overhead, the golden streaks marbling the clouds tarnished first to bronze, then to indigo.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros