Patchwork: meaning, definitions and examples
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patchwork
[ ˈpætʃ.wɜːk ]
craft
Patchwork is a form of needlework that involves sewing together pieces of fabric into a larger design. It is often used to make quilts, blankets, and clothing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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patchwork |
Used to describe something made by sewing together pieces of fabric, often with different colors and patterns. Commonly used in contexts involving folk art, heritage crafts, and handmade items.
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quilting |
This is the process of sewing together two or more layers of fabric, often with a layer of batting in between, to make a thicker padded material. It is primarily used in contexts related to making quilts, bedspreads, and sometimes clothing.
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appliqué |
Refers to a decorative art form that involves sewing pieces of fabric onto a larger piece to create designs and pictures. Often used in contexts involving detail-oriented crafts, art projects, and custom clothing.
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sewing |
General term for the craft of stitching fabric together, which can encompass everything from making clothes to fixing tears to creating home decor. Used in a broad range of contexts involving clothing, crafts, and everyday repairs.
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Examples of usage
- She enjoys creating patchwork quilts in her spare time.
- The patchwork design on the dress was intricate and colorful.
variety
Patchwork can also refer to something composed of many different elements or parts, creating a diverse and varied whole.
Synonyms
assortment, diversity, mixture.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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patchwork |
Use this word to describe something made up of many different pieces or parts, often in a visually or conceptually inconsistent manner. It can be used for quilts, policies, or anything that is assembled from various sources.
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mixture |
This word is used to describe a combination of different elements or substances that are blended together, whether they are physically mixed or metaphorically combined.
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assortment |
Use this word to describe a collection of different types of items, usually organized and varied in a pleasing or practical way. It often refers to products, food, or items on display.
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diversity |
This word is best used to describe a variety of different characteristics within a group, particularly relating to people, species, opinions, or things that are biologically or socially different.
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Examples of usage
- The neighborhood was a patchwork of cultures and traditions.
- The patchwork of fields stretched as far as the eye could see.
Translations
Translations of the word "patchwork" in other languages:
🇵🇹 trabalho de retalhos
🇮🇳 रजाई
🇩🇪 Flickwerk
🇮🇩 kerajinan tambal sulam
🇺🇦 клаптева ковдра
🇵🇱 patchwork
🇯🇵 パッチワーク
🇫🇷 patchwork
🇪🇸 colcha de retazos
🇹🇷 kırkyama
🇰🇷 조각보
🇸🇦 لحاف رقع
🇨🇿 patchwork
🇸🇰 patchwork
🇨🇳 拼布
🇸🇮 patchwork
🇮🇸 bútasaumur
🇰🇿 жамау
🇬🇪 ნაწყვეტების შეკრული
🇦🇿 yamaq işi
🇲🇽 colcha de retazos
Etymology
The word 'patchwork' originated in the 1590s, combining 'patch' (a piece of material used to mend a hole or a tear) and 'work' (the act of creating or producing something). The concept of patchwork has been around for centuries, with various cultures incorporating it into their textile traditions. It has evolved from a practical way of reusing fabric scraps to an art form and a metaphor for diversity and unity.
See also: patch, patched, patcher, patches, patching, patchy.