Definition of patchnext

patch

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb patch contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of patch are mend, rebuild, and repair. While all these words mean "to put into good order something that is injured, damaged, or defective," patch implies an often temporary fixing of a hole or break with new material.

patch worn jeans

When can mend be used instead of patch?

While the synonyms mend and patch are close in meaning, mend implies making whole or sound something broken, torn, or injured.

mended the torn dress

When is it sensible to use rebuild instead of patch?

The words rebuild and patch are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rebuild suggests making like new without completely replacing.

a rebuilt automobile engine

When would repair be a good substitute for patch?

The meanings of repair and patch largely overlap; however, repair applies to the fixing of more extensive damage or dilapidation.

repaired the back steps

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of patch
Noun
Complications can include acne and similar skin problems, sleep apnea, skin reactions to patches or gels, steroid rage and emotional disorders, and enlarged breast tissue, according to StatPearls. Mason Leib, ABC News, 17 July 2026 House Republicans released a spending patch on Friday that would extend funding for the federal government until December. Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 17 July 2026
Verb
Microsoft can then patch that flaw using a mix of human and AI tools. Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 15 July 2026 Microsoft just released a long list of improvements for Windows 11 as part of its bigger patch Tuesdays, patching at least 570 security holes, almost triple the number fixed in last month’s record-breaking release, according to Krebs on Security. Emma Roth, The Verge, 14 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for patch
Recent Examples of Synonyms for patch
Noun
  • Verticillium wilt causes similar blotches and yellowing.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2026
  • Pine snakes can grow up to 56 inches in length, have black, brown, and russet scales with dark blotches along their backs, and are noted for having a pointed nose, which experts believe may help with burrowing.
    Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • Tucked into the foothills above Point Dome, the property is listed for a speck under $5 million.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 July 2026
  • Rather than waiting several years to look at the object through the VLT once more, Sutlieff, Bonse and their colleagues dove into older, archival imagery of the star system, looking for signs of their speck.
    Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 15 July 2026
Verb
  • Our Mission Robotic Vehicle is opening the door to a future where repairing, upgrading and building in space is part of the routine, not the exception.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 21 July 2026
  • The Mecklenburg Public Health Department also recommends installing or repairing screens on windows and doors.
    Eva Flowe July 21, Charlotte Observer, 21 July 2026
Noun
  • Pair them with everything from a simple tank to a sporty jersey, or take a cue from this guest, who leans into a playful mood with a matching polka-dot set and flip-flops.
    Amanda Le, InStyle, 21 July 2026
  • Whether heading to a sporting match, packing for vacation, or dressing for a summer night out, consider these outfit formulas your blueprint to styling polka-dot dresses right now.
    Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 21 July 2026
Noun
  • What does that do for you, to play somebody who feels a little bit closer to you?
    David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 19 July 2026
  • Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan and stir well to combine, scraping up any brown bits.
    Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 19 July 2026
Verb
  • This kind of collective behavior causes a wave of stress and repetitive work that would be easily fixed with an open conversation and some agreements.
    Adriana Gattermayr, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • By fixing other currencies to the dollar, the global economy could stabilize the value of currencies and facilitate trade.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 22 July 2026
Noun
  • Light streams through the frosted glass, catching flecks of dust.
    Ashley Andreou, STAT, 22 June 2026
  • But flecks of green were visible throughout the stadium as Algeria fans made their presence known as well.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • For instance, the small particles in the smoke can inflame the lungs, trigger coughing and worsen existing health conditions.
    Jen Reeder, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
  • Each millimeter-sized TRISO particle consists of a High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) core surrounded by three specialized layers that serve distinct physical functions.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 23 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Patch.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patch. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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