patch

12 synonyms for patch, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or damaged area.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

piece plot spot stretch area

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

scrap darn

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

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Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or damaged area.

“He sewed a leather patch on each elbow of his jacket.”

scrap piece plot spot stretch area dapple eyepatch maculation fleck bandage darn

2. verb

To mend or cover something with a patch.

“She patched her old jeans with scraps of colourful cloth.”

piece

How to use patch

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a patch of grass software patch patch things up a rough patch

Etymology

From Middle English patche, of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old English words for "spot" or "stain."

Full origin of patch →

Frequently asked questions

What does “patch” mean?

The word “patch” means a piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or damaged area. In plain terms, a piece used to cover or fix a hole or flaw — literally in fabric or metal, or figuratively in software.

How do you pronounce “patch”?

“Patch” is pronounced pach (/pæt͡ʃ/ in IPA).

How do you use “patch” in a sentence?

Here is “patch” used in a sentence: “She sewed a patch over the hole in his jeans.”

What part of speech is “patch”?

Depending on how it is used, “patch” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “patch” come from?

The word “patch” comes from Old English. From Middle English patche, of uncertain origin, possibly related to Old English words for "spot" or "stain.".

Is “patch” a common word?

“Patch” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “patch” have?

“Patch” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or damaged area.

What is a software "patch"?

In computing, a "patch" is a small update that fixes or improves part of a program, extending the idea of covering a damaged area. It repairs faults or security holes without replacing the whole system.

What is the difference between a "patch" and a "spot"?

Both can mean a small area distinct from its surroundings. A "patch" often suggests a larger or more irregular area, as in a patch of grass or a patch of fog, while a "spot" tends to be smaller and more sharply defined.

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Nearby words

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