'patchwork' originates from the English word 'patch' combined with 'work', where 'patch' meant 'a piece of cloth used to mend or strengthen a torn or weak point'.

'patch' changed from the Middle English word 'pacche' and eventually became the modern English word 'patch'.

Initially, it meant 'a piece of cloth used to mend', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a mixture of different elements'.