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.
Right now, Americans who open a digital wallet face a patchwork of state regulations that are outdated for modern, quickly evolving technology. — Michael Faulkender, Baltimore Sun, 31 Aug. 2026 Other Western countries have also cut assistance, leaving a patchwork of aid programs to fill the gap. — Durrie Bouscaren, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026 The vintage George Smith armchair is covered in a patchwork of antique rugs. — Caroline Randall Williams, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2026 In photos obtained by the Daily Mail, the 60-year-old actress was seen wearing a green-and-black patchwork blouse with a red floral skirt. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 26 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about patchwork

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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