English Reference

Word

spotted

Phoneticsspot·ted, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈspɑtɪd/

UK/spˈɒtɪd/

Definitions

01noticed or seen

B1 · Intermediate

v. to have seen or noticed something, especially something that was difficult to find.

v. the past tense and past participle of 'spot', meaning to detect or identify something visually, often requiring effort or attention.

“The eagle spotted a small rabbit moving in the grass far below.”

“The security guard spotted a discrepancy in the visitor logs that had been overlooked by the morning shift supervisor.”

Antonyms

02having a pattern of dots

B1 · Intermediate

adj. having a pattern of small, round marks or dots on a surface.

adj. marked with or characterized by a pattern of spots; often used in biological descriptions of flora and fauna.

“She wore a red and white spotted dress to the summer party.”

“The researcher identified the species by the unique spotted pattern on its wings, which serves as camouflage against the forest floor.”

Antonyms

03stained or dirty

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. marked with dirty marks or stains.

adj. marked with discolourations or stains; often implies a lack of cleanliness or a damaged finish.

“The old mirror was so spotted with age that he could barely see his face.”

“The antique documents were badly spotted with mildew, requiring delicate restoration work before they could be displayed to the public.”

Antonyms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
Frequency
Common
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference