patchier; patchiest
Synonyms of patchynext
1
: marked by, consisting of, or diversified with patches
2
: irregular in appearance, makeup, or quality
patchily adverb
patchiness noun

Examples of patchy in a Sentence

The lawn is kind of patchy this year. Patchy fog made driving difficult. His knowledge of the language is patchy. She has only a patchy understanding of his condition.
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.
Volkswagen’s premium Audi brand has lost much of its luster in recent years, dragged down by trade tariffs, stiffening competition and a patchy electric-vehicle roster. William Wilkes, Bloomberg, 8 June 2026 Setting it too low can create a lawn that looks thin and patchy, and prone to weeds. Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 6 June 2026 Some lawns remain green while others have turned brown and patchy. Jasmine Arenas, CBS News, 3 June 2026 Results papered over the cracks as the performances were patchy. James Pearce, New York Times, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for patchy

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of patchy was in 1583

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Cite this Entry

“Patchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patchy. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

patchy

adjective
patchier; patchiest
: consisting of or marked by patches : resembling patchwork

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