# spotted

/ˈspɑtɪd/ (US) · /spˈɒtɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spotted
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. noticed or seen

verb · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. having a pattern of dots

adjective · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 3. stained or dirty

adjective · CEFR B2

marked with dirty marks or stains.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- I spotted a small bird in the tree.
- The security guard spotted the intruder on the cameras before they could reach the main entrance.
- Experienced birdwatchers can often identify a species just by its flight pattern, having spotted subtle movements that a casual observer would likely miss entirely.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.