patchier; patchiest
Synonyms of patchynext
1
: marked by, consisting of, or diversified with patches
2
: irregular in appearance, makeup, or quality
patchily adverb
patchiness noun

Examples of patchy in a Sentence

The lawn is kind of patchy this year. Patchy fog made driving difficult. His knowledge of the language is patchy. She has only a patchy understanding of his condition.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The tinted waterproofing created patchy shades of blue, according to the documents reported by the Times, with bubbles and small holes appearing in a layer designed to waterproof the Reflecting Pool. Antonio Pequeño Iv, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026 Overseeding patchy grass with clover is a quicker, easier, and more affordable process. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 May 2026 Unlike turf, clover stays green even during hot, dry summer months when other grasses look yellow and patchy. Lauren Wellbank, Martha Stewart, 12 May 2026 Spurs started the season with a patchy squad. Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for patchy

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of patchy was in 1583

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Patchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patchy. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

patchy

adjective
patchier; patchiest
: consisting of or marked by patches : resembling patchwork

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