Meaning & Definition of word "Patch"

Patch

/pætʃ/

noun:

  • 1. A piece of material used to cover or mend a hole or a weak spot.
    • Example: He sewed a patch on his jeans to cover the tear.
  • 2. An area of ground, especially one used for a particular purpose.
    • Example: They planted a vegetable patch in their backyard.
  • 3. A small area that is different from the surrounding area.
    • Example: We found a patch of wildflowers along the trail.

verb:

  • 1. To cover or mend something by applying a patch.
    • Example: She patched the roof to prevent leaks during the rain.
  • 2. To add or fix something in order to improve or repair it.
    • Example: The software company released an update to patch the security vulnerability.

Etymology

Middle English 'pacche', possibly of Old French origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

patch things up:

To repair a relationship or situation.

patchwork:

A thing made up of various pieces or parts.

pothole patch:

A temporary repair for a hole in a road.

safety patch:

A temporary safety measure until a permanent solution is applied.

Related Words

stitch:

To sew a piece of fabric or material together.

mend:

To repair something that is broken or damaged.

cover:

To place something over or upon, as for protection.

Slang Meanings of patch

Meaning: A temporary solution.

Example Sentence: Using duct tape was just a patch for the bigger issue.

Meaning: To cover up a mistake.

Example Sentence: He tried to patch his error in the report before submission.