polka dot

American  

[poh-kuh] / ˈpoʊ kə /

noun

Textiles.

1. a dot or round spot (printed, woven, or embroidered) repeated to form a pattern on a textile fabric.

2. a pattern of or a fabric with such dots.

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polka dot British  

noun

1. one of a pattern of small circular regularly spaced spots on a fabric

2. 1. a fabric or pattern with such spots

   2. ( as modifier )

      a polka-dot dress

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Other Word Forms

• polka-dot adjective
• polka-dotted adjective

Etymology

Origin of polka dot

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

Carter incorporates Guy’s real-life signature polka dots to highlight “this is a real story of the blues, and this is a real bluesman.”

From Los Angeles Times

"You need to get colour and interest into the room. I go for stripes or check or polka dot and you can get a set for around £10."

From BBC

Stewart did not refrain from expressing this opinion in the saltiest terms on-air, especially to Carlson, the show’s co-host who was cast as the overgrown college Republican with odious views and a polka dot bowtie.

From Salon

During closing arguments, Cardi B wore a black and white polka dot suit with a red bow, her black hair tied up.

From BBC

Its storefront, painted with polka dots and decorated with giant butterflies, sits like a cheery oasis in Gustine’s four-block downtown, a riot of green spilling from the planter boxes out front.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• daub
• mottle
• smudge
• speckle