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.
AmLactin Rapid Relief Restoring Body Lotion, a bestselling option for patchy, flaky skin, promises up to 24 hours of relief from dry skin. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 2026 There are mitigating factors for Wirtz’s patchy first season at Liverpool. James Pearce, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026 As humidity increases, patchy fog may also develop overnight and into the early mornings late in the week — another sign that Houston is moving away from spring’s fleeting cool spells and into a more persistently warm seasonal pattern. Newsroom Meteorologist, Houston Chronicle, 7 Apr. 2026 Winter can leave lawns patchy, beds overgrown and mulch looking thin. Kansas City Star, 6 Apr. 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 18 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

patchy

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

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