speck
13 synonyms for speck, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A very small spot, mark, or particle.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use speck
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a speck of dust
not a speck
Etymology
From Old English specca, "small spot or stain," related to a Germanic word for "spark."
Full origin of speck →Frequently asked questions
What does “speck” mean?
The word “speck” means a very small spot, mark, or particle. In plain terms, a tiny mark, spot, or bit of something.
How do you pronounce “speck”?
“Speck” is pronounced spehk (/spɛk/ in IPA).
How do you use “speck” in a sentence?
Here is “speck” used in a sentence: “She wiped a speck of dust off the shelf.”
What part of speech is “speck”?
Depending on how it is used, “speck” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “speck” come from?
The word “speck” comes from Old English. From Old English specca, "small spot or stain," related to a Germanic word for "spark.".
How many meanings does “speck” have?
“Speck” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a very small spot, mark, or particle.
