patchy

[pach-ee]

adjective

patchier, patchiest 

1. characterized by or made up of patches. patch.

2. occurring in, forming, or like patches. patch.

3. of inconsistent or irregular quality, texture, etc.; not uniform.

   patchy acting; patchy areas of fog.

patchy

/ ˈpætʃɪ /

adjective

1. irregular in quality, occurrence, intensity, etc

   a patchy essay

2. having or forming patches

Other Word Forms

• patchily adverb
• patchiness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of patchy¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; patch ¹ + -y ¹

Example Sentences

In contrast, India had a patchy run in the league phase, where they lost three successive matches before clinching the last semi-final spot.

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He adds that the coverage is still patchy, even in big cities like London although he does say this new service means "you're more likely to get better service in busy areas like train stations".

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While its record against inflation is patchy, though, it has proved a very reliable hedge against equity drawdowns.

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Mrs Harman said the support after diagnosis was "very limited and very patchy" which could lead to feeling "really lonely".

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Many of the interviewees say that there is still the option of being connected to mobile data - but that this is far too expensive for most, and that connectivity is patchy.

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Related Words

• erratic 
• fitful 
• irregular 
• sketchy 
• uneven