stippling

Stipple \Stip"ple\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Stippled}; p. pr. & vb.
   n. {Stippling}.] [D. stippelen to make points, to spot, dot,
   from stippel, dim. of stip a dot, spot.]
   1. To engrave by means of dots, in distinction from engraving
      in lines.
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            The interlaying of small pieces can not altogether
            avoid a broken, stippled, spotty effect. --Milman.
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   2. To paint, as in water colors, by small, short touches
      which together produce an even or softly graded surface.
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Stipple \Stip"ple\, Stippling \Stip"pling\, n. (Engraving)
   A mode of execution which produces the effect by dots or
   small points instead of lines.
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   2. (Paint.) A mode of execution in which a flat or even tint
      is produced by many small touches.
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