variegation

IPA/ˌveə.rɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/
IPA/ˌver.i.əˈɡeɪ.ʃən/

variegation — noun

  • variegationsingular
  • variegationsplural

1. the appearance of different colours on one surface, usually in uneven patches, s

1.nounC2
Definition

the appearance of different colours on one surface, usually in uneven patches, streaks, or markings.

Example

The variegation in the ivy leaves became clearer in spring sunlight.

variegation in + plant / material

Museum staff admired the variegation of green and gold in the vase.

variegation of + colours

Common collocations
  • leaf variegation
  • subtle variegation
  • variegation in marble
  • variegation of green and cream
Synonyms
  • mottling

    suggests small spots or blotches rather than broader colour areas

  • marbling

    used when the lines or swirls resemble those in marble

  • patterning

    broader and less focused on colour contrast

Antonyms
  • uniform colour

    emphasises an even, unbroken colour over the whole surface

  • solid colour

    used when an object shows one plain colour without mixed markings

Grammar Patterns

variegation + of + colours

variegation + in + noun phrase

Usage Note

Usually uncountable and most common in descriptions of plants, stone, cloth, and painted objects. Writers often use 'variegation of' for the colours themselves and 'variegation in' for the surface that shows them.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

'Variegation' is the broadest and most formal of these words for mixed colouring on a surface. It can describe leaves, stone, cloth, feathers, or skin when different shades appear in irregular patches or streaks. 'Mottling' usually suggests small spots or blotches and often sounds duller or rougher. 'Marbling' is chosen when the lines or swirls look like those in marble or fat through meat. 'Patterning' is broader still: it can include shapes or repeated designs, not only mixed colour. In gardening, art, and design writing, 'variegation' is often preferred because it is neutral and technical. You might admire the variegation in a hosta leaf, but call a few scattered brown marks on fruit mottling.

variegation ↗mottling ↗marbling ↗patterning ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Adverbs

Phrases

  • natural variegation
  • subtle variegation
  • variegation of green and cream

Prepositions

Etymology

LatinEnglish

Built in English from the verb 'variegate' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ion'. 'Variegate' comes through Latin roots linked to 'varius', meaning 'varied' or 'of different kinds', so the noun developed the sense of showing mixed colours or markings on the same surface.

First known use

1646

1646, in the meaning defined above