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.
Results papered over the cracks as the performances were patchy. James Pearce, New York Times, 28 May 2026 In general, films which are based on TV series, and star the same cast, have a patchy track record. Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026 After some patchy morning fog and chances of rain on Saturday, Memorial Day weekend in Kansas City and the surrounding area is expected to have warm and drier conditions. Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 23 May 2026 Overgrown shrubs, weeds, patchy grass, peeling paint, or dirty walkways can all make a front yard feel neglected. Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 21 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 29 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

patchy

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

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