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

Urgent questions are being raised over a patchwork of armed groups that have emerged to fight Hamas in Gaza over recent months.

Read more on BBC

They say a patchwork of state rules makes it impossible to comply and slows down innovation.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Her shirt is tucked into a skirt with burnt-red patchwork in the front.

Read more on Literature

He wore a pith helmet that had been painted to match the balloon’s bright patchwork of colors and patterns, with a small, brave flag flying on top.

Read more on Literature

How the Chargers can win: As usual, protect Herbert behind a patchwork offensive line.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• jumble 
• mishmash 
• plaid 
• tartan