swatch

Meaning

Noun

1. A piece, pattern, or sample, generally of cloth or a similar material.
2. A selection of such samples bound together.
3. A clump or portion of something.
4. A demonstration, an example, a proof.
5. (obsolete) A tag or other small object attached to another item as a means of identifying its owner; a tally; specifically the counterfoil of a tally.

Verb

To create a swatch, especially a sample of knitted fabric.

Synonyms

sample

fragment

patch

rag

scrap

specimen

example

measure of location

Pronounced as (IPA)

/swɒtʃ/

Etymology

Cognate with Scots: swach

Cognate with English: swath

Cognate with Old English: swæcc

In summary

From earlier Northern England dialectal swache (“the counterfoil or counterstock of a tally”) (1512); further etymology unknown. Cognate with Scots swach, swatch. Compare English swath, swathe. Compare also Old English swæcc (“taste; flavour; odour; fragrance”).