spot You can use the word "spot" many different ways. As a noun, it can be a location or a place: - This is a great spot for lunch.
- Ted knows of a good spot for catching fish.
- Try to park the car in a good spot.
But a "spot" can also be a mistake, dots, a blemish, or something that has spilled: - There’s a spot on my shirt. I think it’s from spaghetti sauce.
- Helga has little red spots all over her legs. It’s probably a rash.
- After I got hit in the head, I saw spots before my eyes. (This would be an optical illusion caused by a blow to the head.)

This bug has spots on its back. When the word "spot" is used as a verb, it’s similar to the verb "see." - If you spot any good sales at the store, let me know.
- We spotted a few celebrities as we were walking along Fifth Avenue in New York.
The phrase "on the spot" is very popular. It has a few different meanings: - Immediately after the robbery, the police were on the spot. (on the spot = to arrive immediately)
- Your answer is on the spot. (on the spot = correct)
- The teacher put Jose on the spot when he asked the young man a question. He didn’t have an answer. (on the spot = in an awkward position)
Click here to go to the Word of the Day page. November 10, 2011 |