Spot

/spɒt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small mark or stain.

There's a red spot on my shirt that won't come out.

A particular place or location.

We found a great picnic spot by the lake.

A point in a performance, activity, or series.

He scored a spot in the finals after winning the semifinal match.

verb

To see, notice, or recognize someone or something.

I quickly spotted him in the crowd of people.

To identify or locate something.

Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?

To assign a place or position.

She was spotted a chair in the front row for the ceremony.

Middle English: from Old French 'espot', from late Latin 'spotus', probably from Latin 'spatium' meaning 'space'.

in the spot

In a particular situational context.

spot on

Exactly right or accurate.

spot checks

Random checks to ensure compliance or correctness.

splotch

A large, irregular spot.

dot

A small round mark, especially one that is small relative to its surroundings.

blot

A dark mark or stain, especially one made by ink.

To be on the lookout.

I’ll be spotting for you while you’re driving.

To give someone money for a short period.

Can you spot me five bucks until payday?