The word "patching up" is spelled as /pætʃɪŋ ʌp/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "patch" is pronounced with the sound of "æ" which is similar to the "a" in "cat". The second syllable "ing" is pronounced with the sound of "ɪŋ" which is often used to indicate a continuous action, like "running" or "singing." The last syllable "up" is pronounced with the sound of "ʌp" which is similar to the "uh" in "cut". "Patching up" means mending something, usually requiring some kind of material or adhesive to repair it.
Patching up, as a phrasal verb, refers to the act of repairing, fixing, or rectifying something that has been damaged, broken or disrupted. It involves the process of restoring or mending the object, situation, or relationship to its original or functional state.
When applied to physical objects or structures, patching up usually involves applying a temporary or makeshift fix to cover or restore a damaged area. It may involve patching holes, cracks, or tears in materials such as clothing, furniture, or buildings by using adhesive materials, sewing, or other suitable methods. Patching up can also be used to refer to the process of fixing or repairing flaws in software programs or computer systems by applying patches or updates.
In a more metaphorical sense, patching up pertains to repairing or mending a broken or strained relationship, whether it is between individuals, groups, or entities. It involves working through conflicts, issues, or disagreements with the aim of restoring harmony, understanding, and trust. Patching up in this context often involves communication, compromise, and efforts to reconcile differences to bring about a resolution. The result of patching up a relationship is usually the renewed or improved state of harmony and cooperation.
Overall, patching up implies the act of fixing, repairing, or reconciling something that has encountered damage, disruption, or strain, with the goal of restoring it to its previous functional or harmonious state.
The phrase "patching up" has a straightforward etymology.
The word "patch" comes from Middle English "pacche" or "pach" and Old English "pæcca", which meant a piece of material used to mend or cover a hole or tear. It can be traced back to the Latin word "pactus", which means "something fastened or fixed".
The "ing" ending in "patching" indicates a continuous action, and when combined with "up", it implies the act of mending, repairing, or fixing something. So, "patching up" refers to the process of repairing something by applying patches or mending materials to cover the damaged area or fix a problem.