What does dimpling mean?
Dimpling is a verb that refers to the act of creating small depressions or dimples in something, typically the skin. This can be done intentionally, such as when a chef uses a fork to create a decorative border on a pastry crust, or unintentionally, such as when a person develops dimples on their skin due to genetics or aging. The word dimpling is often used in a culinary context, but it can also be used in other contexts, such as in the description of a person's physical appearance. Dimpling is a relatively common word, but it is not as widely used as some other verbs that describe similar actions, such as indenting or puckering. Despite this, dimpling is a useful word that can add nuance and detail to descriptions of physical appearance or culinary techniques.
verbTo create small depressions or dimples in something, especially the skin, by pinching or pressing it.
- 1. To create small depressions or dimples in something, especially the skin, by pinching or pressing it.
"The chef dimpled the pastry crust with a fork to create a decorative border."
"The chef dimpled the pastry crust with a fork to create a decorative border."
"The person's skin developed dimples on their cheeks due to genetics."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of dimpling
The word dimpling is derived from the verb dimple, which means to create small depressions or dimples in something. The verb dimple is thought to have originated in the 15th century, and it is likely related to the Old English word dimple, which means to pinch or press.
Usage notes
Dimpling is a relatively formal word, and it is not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it can be useful in formal or technical writing, such as in culinary or medical contexts. The word dimpling can also be used in a more general sense to describe the act of creating small depressions or dimples in something, such as in the description of a person's physical appearance.