Patches: meaning, definitions and examples

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patches

[ˈpætʃɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

Small pieces of material used to mend or reinforce a garment.

Synonyms

fix, mend, repair, sew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patches	Used when covering holes or weak spots, usually in clothing or fabric. Can also refer to software updates. She put colorful patches on her jeans to cover the holes The software developer released new patches to fix the bugs
mend	Typically used for repairing small tears or holes in fabric or more abstract situations such as relationships. The term is somewhat old-fashioned. She knew how to mend the tear in her dress They worked to mend their friendship after the argument
repair	Used in a formal or professional context to describe fixing a variety of items or systems, often mechanical or structural. He took his car to the shop to repair the engine The team will repair the damaged bridge
fix	Used for general repairs or corrections, applicable to a wide range of contexts including mechanical, software, and everyday life problems. Can you fix the broken chair? We need to fix the issues in this report before the meeting
sew	Specifically related to stitching fabric together, either for making clothes or fixing tears and holes in fabric. She learned to sew her own clothes He will sew the ripped seam on his jacket

Examples of usage

She sewed patches onto the elbows of his jacket.
The tailor added patches to the torn jeans.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

software

Code changes applied to update or fix issues in a computer program.

Synonyms

bug fix, fix, update, upgrade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patches	Typically used in the context of minor software updates that address specific issues or vulnerabilities. The system administrator applied several patches to enhance security. Daily patches are essential to keep the software running smoothly.
update	Broad term for a new version of software or information that adds features or improves performance. Can be minor or major. Make sure to download the latest update to get the new features. The system requires an update to enhance its capabilities.
fix	A general term for correcting problems or making something work properly; not limited to software. He found a quick fix for the leak in the roof. The developer managed to fix the login issues in the app.
bug fix	Refers to a specific solution designed to correct an error, flaw, or fault in the software. The latest bug fix resolved the crashing issue users were experiencing. A bug fix was released promptly after the problem was reported.
upgrade	Usually refers to a significant enhancement or a new version of hardware or software, offering new features, better performance, or improved capabilities. We are planning to upgrade our network infrastructure next month. The software upgrade includes a complete redesign of the user interface.

Examples of usage

The developer released a patch to address the security vulnerability.
Make sure to install the latest software patch for your operating system.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

clothing

To mend or reinforce a garment with small pieces of material.

Synonyms

fix, mend, repair, sew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mend	Commonly used for repairing fabric, clothing, or more delicate items. Often implies a careful or skillful repair. She mended the tear in her dress After the argument, they worked hard to mend their relationship
repair	Used for fixing mechanical, structural, or electronic items. It implies restoring to a good condition. The mechanic will repair the car engine They need to repair the roof before winter
fix	General term for solving a problem, repairing an object, or making something functional again. He needs to fix the leaky faucet They found a way to fix the error in the report
sew	Specific to joining or repairing fabric using a needle and thread. She learned to sew her own clothes He sewed a button back onto his shirt

Examples of usage

She patched up the holes in the jeans.
He patched his torn shirt with a colorful fabric.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'patch' comes from the Old English word 'pæccian', meaning to mend or repair.
Historically, patches were used to extend the life of clothing and were often made from different fabrics.
In medieval times, patches were signs of poverty; patched clothing indicated one couldn’t afford new garments.

Fashion

Patches have become fashionable in modern clothing, often symbolizing personal expression and individuality.
Many high-profile fashion designers incorporate patches into their collections, blending art with wearability.
Military patches are used to denote rank, unit, and achievements, visualizing a soldier’s journey and identity.

Technology

In computer software, a 'patch' refers to an update that fixes bugs or security issues.
The concept of 'patching' originated from fixing physical objects and transitioned into the digital world.
Software patches can prevent vulnerabilities, making systems safer and more efficient.

Gardening

In gardening, the term 'patch' refers to a specific area, like a vegetable patch where crops are planted.
Community gardens often create patches for different plants, promoting biodiversity and sustainability.
The term 'patch' in farming can also refer to areas cultivated for particular crops, such as pumpkin patches in autumn.

Literature

Literature often uses 'patches' as a metaphor for covering emotional wounds or mending relationships.
In children’s stories, characters frequently use patches to symbolize creativity and resourcefulness, turning problems into opportunities.
Famous works like 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' feature patches as elements that develop character depth and resilience.

Translations

Translations of the word "patches" in other languages:

🇵🇹 remendos

🇮🇳 पैचेस

🇩🇪 Flicken

🇮🇩 tambalan

🇺🇦 латки

🇵🇱 łatki

🇯🇵 パッチ

🇫🇷 pièces

🇪🇸 parches

🇹🇷 yama

🇰🇷 패치

🇸🇦 رقع

🇨🇿 záplaty

🇸🇰 záplaty

🇨🇳 补丁

🇸🇮 obliži

🇮🇸 plástrar

🇰🇿 жамалар

🇬🇪 პატჩები

🇦🇿 yamalar

🇲🇽 parches

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,741 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6738 shots
6739 nursery
6740 feathers
6741 patches
6742 disturbing
6743 simpler
6744 correspondent
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