variegated
What does "variegated" mean?
Variegated describes something that is marked with different colors, patches, or streaks, often referring to leaves, flowers, or patterns. Imagine looking at a plant where the leaves are not just solid green, but are splashed with white, yellow, or cream; that visual complexity and variety in appearance is the heart of the word. While it is frequently used in botany to describe foliage, it is also used metaphorically to describe things that are diverse or varied in character. You might use it to describe a variegated career path or a variegated group of people, implying a rich, multi-faceted texture rather than a uniform or monochromatic experience.
"variegated" in conversation
Gardening advice
I think I'll plant some variegated ivy along the brick wall.
I think I'll plant some variegated ivy along the brick wall.
That’s a great idea, the cream edges will really brighten up that shady corner.
That’s a great idea, the cream edges will really brighten up that shady corner.
Used here in its literal botanical sense to describe leaves with color variations.
Discussing a career
Looking back, my career has been quite variegated.
Looking back, my career has been quite variegated.
You’ve certainly done a bit of everything—from tech startups to art curation!
You’ve certainly done a bit of everything—from tech startups to art curation!
Used metaphorically to describe a diverse and multi-faceted professional history.
"variegated" in a sentence
The garden featured many variegated hostas.
The garden featured many variegated hostas.
Her personality was as variegated as the tapestry hanging on the wall.
Her personality was as variegated as the tapestry hanging on the wall.
The landscape presented a variegated vista of autumnal hues ranging from deep crimson to pale gold.
The landscape presented a variegated vista of autumnal hues ranging from deep crimson to pale gold.
