Emily Dickinson Lexicon

DOT, n. [I know not the origin and affinities of this word. It would be naturally deduced from a verb signifying to set, or to prick, like punctum, point. It coincides in elements with tatoo, and W. dodi, to give, that is, to thrust or cause to pass.]

A small point or spot, made with a pen or other pointed instrument; a speck, used in marking a writing or other thing.