Fleck

A small mark, spot, or speck of a different color or substance from its surroundings, often irregular in shape. It can also refer to a tiny particle or a slight amount of something. The presence of flecks can create visual interest, add texture, or indicate the presence of impurities or different components within a material or surface. The term implies a dispersed, rather than a concentrated, presence. Flecks may occur naturally or be artificially added, contributing to the overall appearance and character of the object or area they inhabit. Often, the context will determine the specific meaning, and it is important to identify the medium to understand the fleck.

Fleck meaning with examples

• The artist noticed a subtle fleck of green paint on the canvas, likely from a previous painting session. She used a brush to cover the mark. This small imperfection highlighted the layered history of her work and added depth to the piece, making her reconsider the new painting's composition.
• Sunlight caught a fleck of gold in her engagement ring. It shimmered invitingly as she brought the light to focus on the diamond, which was also flawless and perfectly symmetrical. The subtle brilliance of the metal enhanced the diamond's beauty, and the whole ring was beautiful.
• The weathered wooden fence was covered with flecks of peeling paint, a reminder of its exposure to the elements. Rust flecked the metal. The visual texture of the fence told a story of time and use, adding to the rustic charm of the garden.
• When baking the sourdough bread, the baker noted flecks of whole wheat throughout the dough. The resulting crust had small flakes of flour, highlighting the use of different grains. These flecks enriched the flavor and gave the bread a satisfying, chewy texture.
• Observing the landscape paintings, the critic observed that the artist used flecks of various colors to represent the shifting light across the field. Using the colors from the area's trees, the painter gave a unique perspective that emphasized the moment in time.