Dot

/dɒt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A small round mark or spot.
She used a dot of paint to embellish her artwork.
A point in space or a tiny, round shape, often used to indicate position or an element in a graphical representation.
The map contained a red dot marking the location of the treasure.
In writing, a dot refers particularly to the period at the end of a sentence.
Make sure to put a dot at the end of your sentence.
verb
To mark with a dot or dots.
She decided to dot the 'i's with hearts in her letter.
To cover with a small spot or dot.
The fabric was dotted with colorful patterns.

Etymology

Middle English 'dote', from Old English 'dott' meaning 'a small mark'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dot the i's and cross the t's
To pay attention to small details.
dot-com
Pertaining to companies that operate online.
dot-to-dot
A puzzle that connects dotted lines to form a picture.
knock off a dot
To complete a small task quickly.

Related Words

period
A punctuation mark used to indicate the end of a sentence.
dot matrix
A type of printer that uses dots to form text and images.
dotted line
A line made up of short dashes or dots, often used in diagrams.

Slang Meanings

To have a dot refers to having a minor blemish or spot on something.
That shirt looks great except for the dot near the sleeve.
Dot can refer to a friend or acquaintance in some urban slang.
What’s up, dot? Haven't seen you in ages.