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

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 • Feb. 2, 2026

Dressed in a matching polka dot tank top and ruffled skirt with blue chunky heeled boots and a mini purse, Mattel’s newest Barbie may look like previous dolls at first glance.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 9, 2025

We are lucky to have Justin Bontha — tailor to Rihanna and Madonna — on set to tweak a caftan that Cerezo crafted from polka dot fabric.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2025

Dressed up as Minnie Mouse, in red and white polka dot clothes and hair in pigtails, Bea takes to the paddock alongside her vaulting partner.

From BBC • Dec. 8, 2023

As for a swimsuit, my options were limited to my black one-piece and the red and white polka dot one I bought last summer but hadn’t had the balls to wear.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy

Related Words

• daub
• mottle
• smudge
• speckle