patchwork

noun

patch·​work ˈpach-ˌwərk 

often attributive

1

: something composed of miscellaneous or incongruous parts : hodgepodge

2

: pieces of cloth of various colors and shapes sewn together to form a covering

also : something resembling such a covering

a patchwork of fields

Illustration of patchwork

• patchwork 2

Synonyms of patchwork

• jumble
• medley
• variety
• assortment
• collage
• hodgepodge
• mishmash

Examples of patchwork in a Sentence

The valley is a patchwork of family farms.

A patchwork of laws prevent the land from being developed.

a patchwork system of laws

Recent Examples on the Web

The patchwork details, oversized pockets, and contrasting drawstring tie give them tons of personality, and the ankle length is just right for any shoe pairing. — Kate Boswell, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2026

That substance shows up in the little things that elevate a big house into a memorable one — intricate millwork, triple crown molding and custom touches that give the home a cohesive, old-world richness rather than a patchwork of trends. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 8 Aug. 2026

For an executive tasked with anticipating and responding to climate policy, the regulatory patchwork within the United States has created a tiny needle to thread. — Justin Worland, Time, 7 Aug. 2026

In contrast, Canada offers a patchwork of programs, credits and consultations, which are layered onto higher taxes, scarce capital and sluggish policy-making. — Karia Samaroo, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing patchwork

• patchwork quilt

Rhymes for patchwork

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

patchwork

noun

patch·​work ˈpach-ˌwərk 

1

: something made up of various parts

2

: pieces of cloth of various colors and shapes sewn together usually in a pattern

patchwork adjective