Definition

This word describes something that is uneven or inconsistent in quality, often with noticeable gaps or patches.

Example

The weather has been the patchiest this summer, with some days being sunny and others very rainy.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I just got back from the park, and the grass was the patchiest I've ever seen.

Really? I thought they took care of it better than that.

Yeah, it was all brown in some places and really thick in others.

That sounds odd; maybe they need to do some reseeding.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Patchiest → It is formed from "patch" (from Middle English *pacche*, meaning a piece or a small area) and the suffix "-iest" (meaning most). The word "patchiest" refers to something that has the most patches or is characterized by unevenness or irregularity in coverage.

Memory Tip

Think of a surface that has many small pieces or areas ('patch') and remember that 'patchiest' means it has the most of those uneven areas.

Visually Confused Words