patchwork

noun

patch·​work ˈpach-ˌwərk How to pronounce patchwork (audio)
Synonyms of patchworknext
often attributive
1
: something composed of miscellaneous or incongruous parts : hodgepodge
2
: pieces of cloth of various colors and shapes sewn together to form a covering
also : something resembling such a covering
a patchwork of fields

Illustration of patchwork

Illustration of patchwork
  • patchwork 2

Synonyms of patchwork

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Examples of patchwork in a Sentence

The valley is a patchwork of family farms. A patchwork of laws prevent the land from being developed. a patchwork system of laws
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most prominently, the base will be a patchwork of habitats where astronauts reside. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 1 July 2026 The 76ers won 45 games last year, but had to do patchwork around Embiid and George the entire way. — Tony Jones, New York Times, 2 July 2026 Its patchwork patterns are reminiscent of antique quilts with plenty of Southern charm, and they’re printed and stitched in sections along the length of the quilt. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 However, the ad-hoc approach to vetting new models and the customers that can use them has left critics saying the result is a patchwork system that gives companies little clarity about what comes next. — Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for patchwork

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of patchwork was in 1634

Phrases Containing patchwork

Rhymes for patchwork

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Browse Nearby Words

patch up
patchwork
patchwork quilt
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Cite this Entry

“Patchwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patchwork. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

patchwork

noun
patch·​work ˈpach-ˌwərk How to pronounce patchwork (audio)
1
: something made up of various parts
2
: pieces of cloth of various colors and shapes sewn together usually in a pattern
patchwork adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on patchwork

Nglish: Translation of patchwork for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about patchwork

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