Patchwork: meaning, definitions and examples

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patchwork

 

[ ˈpætʃ.wɜːk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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

appliqué, quilting, sewing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
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.

  • The blanket is a beautiful piece of patchwork, with squares of various patterns and colors.
  • She learned the art of patchwork from her grandmother.
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.

  • She spent the winter quilting a new blanket for her bed.
  • Quilting requires patience and precision, especially with intricate patterns.
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.

  • The dress featured a floral appliqué that added a unique touch.
  • Appliqué can turn simple fabric into a piece of art.
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.

  • She enjoys sewing her own clothes because she can customize the fit and style.
  • He picked up sewing to mend his worn-out jeans.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoys creating patchwork quilts in her spare time.
  • The patchwork design on the dress was intricate and colorful.
Context #2 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
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.

  • She sewed a beautiful patchwork quilt from leftover fabrics
  • The new policy is a patchwork of different ideas from various stakeholders
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.

  • The recipe calls for a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs
  • His mood was a mixture of excitement and nervousness before the big presentation
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.

  • The gift basket had an assortment of chocolates, cookies, and teas
  • They offered a wide assortment of wines at the vineyard tour
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.

  • The company emphasizes diversity in its hiring practices
  • The rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity

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.