PATCHY Synonyms: 33 Similar and Opposite Words

patchy

adjective

Definition of patchy

as in dilapidated

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Dissimilar Words

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 patchy Africa’s young population and patchy broadband networks offer global operators an attractive mix of scale and unmet demand. — Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 17 July 2026 Sudden increases in hair shedding or patchy areas of loss are also important warning signs. — Sherri Gordon, Health, 13 July 2026 Since rain fell across much of the area on Saturday, expect some patchy fog to reduce visibility overnight into Sunday. — Andrew Kozak, CBS News, 12 July 2026 Grubs, pests, and weeds can contribute to a lawn that’s sparse, patchy, or full of holes. — Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 12 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for patchy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for patchy

Adjective

Its current chapter as a travel venue is helmed by the Greene family, who bought the property in 2000 and began to restore it from a dilapidated state.

— Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 12 July 2026
Back at the dilapidated family home, Edgar grows even surlier, lashing into gentle-natured Joe for being an under-achiever compared to his brother and causing Thya to become apprehensive about Ed’s proximity to sharp objects.

— David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 July 2026

Definition of dilapidated

Adjective

Eric_Lynxweiler | Courtesy of Latinos in Heritage Conservation The Silver Platter, with its faded crimson awning along a stretch in Los Angeles’ Westlake District, doesn’t look like much from the outside.

— R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
The faded fabric, buttery-soft cotton, and contrast-trim neckline lend it a vintage vibe that won’t look out of place when paired with more contemporary pieces.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 28 June 2026

Definition of faded

Adjective

Over the weekend, the FDA said a sample of shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, which was not part of the recall, tested positive.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
Taylor Farms has recalled shredded lettuce processed in central Mexico that was shipped to restaurants, food services and retailers in 27 states.

— Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 24 July 2026

Definition of shredded

Adjective

Too mangy, too rangy, prowling in their bony elegance, leaping weightless from dangerously precarious mounds of sharp edges, peering yellow- eyed from shadows.

— Danielle Parker, CBS News, 21 May 2026
To write, especially in a first draft, is to submit myself to the mangy, cackling glory of not knowing.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Apr. 2026

Definition of mangy

Adjective

The combination of dust, dirt, pollen, and high humidity can leave a sticky, dingy coating on the floors, railings, and furniture.

— Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 July 2026
Bath and hand towels have a tendency to look dingy over time, even when they’re washed regularly.

— Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 19 July 2026

Definition of dingy

Adjective

For example, receive a new pair of socks, finally throw away that extra holey pair hiding in the back of the drawer.

— Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2026
That’s thanks to a quirk of South Florida’s geology, where the entire region is perched on holey rock that does little to stop the rise of groundwater, which Sukop’s research has shown is rising on pace with sea level.

— Susan Merriam, Miami Herald, 12 Nov. 2025

Definition of holey

Adjective

Haaland, who has already caught the world’s attention with his sprawling collection of Hermès bags and relatable love for a tacky trinket, was dressed to the nines.

— Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
From word-art walls to flashy lighting, these details can make an otherwise lovely space feel tacky, say experts.

— Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 12 July 2026

Definition of tacky

Browse Nearby Words

patchworks

patchy

pat down

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Patchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patchy. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of patchy

adjective

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