Patch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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patch
[pætʃ ]
Definitions
on clothing
A small piece of material used to mend a hole or tear in a garment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| patch |
Used when temporarily covering or fixing small holes, tears, or weak points, especially in fabric or software. Indicates a less permanent solution.
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| mend |
Typically used for repairing small damages in fabric, clothes, or soft materials. It has a slightly more gentle and hands-on connotation.
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| repair |
Implies making something damaged or broken functional again. Often used for technical, mechanical, or more significant types of fixes. More formal than 'fix'.
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| fix |
A general term for correcting problems or restoring something to a working condition. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She sewed a patch over the hole in her jeans.
- The patch on his jacket was starting to come loose.
software
A small piece of code designed to update or improve a computer program.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| patch |
Use 'patch' when referring to a small piece of software designed to correct or enhance an existing program. This is often used in the context of fixing bugs or vulnerabilities.
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| update |
Use 'update' when referring to bringing something to a more recent version or state. This can apply to software, information, or even skills.
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| upgrade |
Use 'upgrade' when referring to replacing or improving something to a higher standard or newer version. This is often used with technology and services.
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| fix |
Use 'fix' in a general context when referring to repairing or correcting something that is broken or malfunctioning. It can apply to software, hardware, or even situations.
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Examples of usage
- The latest patch fixed several bugs in the software.
- Make sure to install the security patch to protect your system.
mend
To mend or repair something by adding a patch.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| patch |
Used when temporarily covering or fixing a small area of damage or a minor issue, often in a quick or provisional manner. Commonly used for software updates or simple repairs.
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| mend |
Often used for repairing something that is physically broken or torn, particularly clothing or fabric. It carries a sense of careful, detailed work.
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| repair |
Used for making something that is damaged or not working properly functional again, can imply a thorough or professional approach. Suitable for mechanical, electronic, and other tangible items.
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| fix |
Used to describe making something that is broken or damaged functional again. Can apply to a wide range of repairs, from simple to complex issues.
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Examples of usage
- She patched up the hole in the wall with some plaster.
- He patched his old jeans to make them last longer.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culture
- Patches have long been used in fashion, not only to repair clothing but as a decorative element in trends like punk rock.
- In Native American culture, patches may be used in ceremonial clothing, symbolizing the mending of relationships.
- Collecting patches has become a popular hobby, especially in the camping and outdoor community, where patches often represent accomplishments or places visited.
Technology
- In software, a 'patch' refers to code updates that fix errors or vulnerabilities, helping to improve performance and security.
- The concept of software patches became important in the 1970s, as computers and software began to proliferate.
- These digital patches are essential in today's tech landscape to keep systems safe from threats.
Psychology
- In therapy, the idea of 'patching' emotional wounds relates to healing from past traumas or difficult experiences.
- Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy aim to help 'patch' negative thought patterns with healthier ones.
- The metaphor of patching can describe the ongoing effort needed to maintain mental well-being.
Literature
- Patches appear frequently in classic literature, often symbolizing imperfections or the need for repair in characters' lives.
- The idea of a patchwork narrative can refer to stories composed of differing perspectives or timeframes sewn together.
- In poetry, patches can symbolize fragments of memories, representing the tapestry of life's experiences.
Origin of 'patch'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old French 'pache', which means a piece of cloth.
- It has roots in Middle English, where 'pacche' also referred to a small piece or patch.
- The usage of the term has evolved over centuries to include both physical patches and metaphorical uses.
The word 'patch' has a long history, originating from the Old English word 'pæcc', meaning piece or scrap of cloth. Over time, the meaning of 'patch' has expanded to include various contexts such as clothing repair and software updates. The concept of patching has become essential in the world of technology to keep systems secure and up-to-date.
See also: patched, patcher, patches, patching, patchwork, patchy.