patchy
|patch-y|
B2
/ˈpætʃi/
irregular spots
Etymology
Etymology Information
'patchy' originates from the word 'patch,' which comes from Middle English 'pacche,' meaning 'a piece of cloth used to mend or cover a hole.'
Historical Evolution
'pacche' transformed into the modern English word 'patch,' and eventually 'patchy' was derived to describe something with patches.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'having patches,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'inconsistent or irregular.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having irregular or uneven patches or spots.
The grass in the garden is patchy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
inconsistent or irregular in quality or performance.
The internet connection was patchy throughout the day.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42