the world > matter > colour > variegation > patch of colour > mark with patches [verb (transitive)] > mottle (3)
transitive. To mar the clearness or sharpness of (colours); to mix (colours) together (also in); also figurative. †to muddle over: to variegate…
transitive. To mark or dapple with spots, patches, or blotches; to variegate, to give or impart a mottled appearance to. Frequently in passive. Also…
transitive. To spatter or sprinkle; to mottle.