patchwork

[pach-wurk]

noun

1. something made up of an incongruous variety of pieces or parts; hodgepodge.

   a patchwork of verse forms.

   Synonyms: mélange, jumble, medley

2. work made of pieces of cloth or leather of various colors or shapes sewed together, used especially for covering quilts, cushions, etc.

adjective

1. resembling a patchwork, especially in being makeshift, irregular, or improvised.

   a patchwork policy of dispensing foreign aid.

verb (used with object)

1. to make as patchwork.

   She specializes in patchworking skirts.

2. to assemble or connect in making patchwork.

   to patchwork neckties into bedspreads.

patchwork

/ ˈpætʃˌwɜːk /

noun

1. needlework done by sewing pieces of different materials together

2. something, such as a theory, made up of various parts

   a patchwork of cribbed ideas

Other Word Forms

• patchworky adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of patchwork¹

First recorded in 1685–95; patch ¹ + work

Example Sentences

But when state governments legislate independently, they create a patchwork of laws varying widely in scope, enforcement and interpretation—which makes compliance harder for investors, introduces legal uncertainty, and risks discouraging legitimately beneficial international partnerships.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A patchwork of large, boxy structures was nestled among the trees.

Read more on Literature

The dispute over 1-800-Gambler has brought a long-simmering debate to the forefront: whether to nationalize problem gambling treatment even as casinos face a patchwork of state regulations and rules.

Read more on Barron's

Previous efforts to create a universal registration form have faltered over the same challenge: complying with a patchwork of state requirements.

Read more on Salon

Major tech companies have announced a patchwork of AI alliances in recent weeks.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• jumble 
• mishmash 
• plaid 
• tartan