patchwork

noun

patch·​work ˈpach-ˌwərk How to pronounce patchwork (audio)
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

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 High prices, a lack of public charging infrastructure and confusing patchwork of tax credits in the United States have turned some potential buyers away. Anna Cooban, CNN, 8 Mar. 2024 And yet even with all the beauty of exploring Ireland's patchwork green countryside and pursuing the end of every rainbow, incredibly, Scahill managed to get more than a dozen performers to join our musical motley crew on tour. Lori Nickel, Journal Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2024 Done in black and white monochrome, it’s adorned with leather-and-check tweed and patchwork styles. Allyson Portee, The Hollywood Reporter, 1 Mar. 2024 Finally, after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, access to reproductive healthcare has become patchwork across the country. The San Diego Union-Tribune Staff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Feb. 2024 The designer also works with limited quantities of fabrics, often upcycling and using patchwork techniques to limit waste. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 16 Feb. 2024 In many ways, models are regulated already, thanks to a complex patchwork of legal frameworks governs the development and deployment of any technology. IEEE Spectrum, 8 Feb. 2024 The patchwork of ideas that emerged from the frenzied call included bonfires, house parties and sign-waving events. Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2024 Playing with workwear tropes, patchwork and double-pocket details in textural fabrics, Lo’s interest in the 90s and hip-hop culture shines through the collection’s slouchy shapes. Gemma A. Williams, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'patchwork.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of patchwork was in 1634

Dictionary Entries Near patchwork

Cite this Entry

“Patchwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patchwork. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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