Definition: A patch is a small piece of software that is used to correct a problem with a software program or an operating system. Patches are often called "fixes". Service packs usually contain many different patches.
Most major software companies will periodically release patches, usually downloadable from the Internet, that correct very specific problems in their software programs.
Also Known As: Fix
Examples:
"The word processing software I use didn't print on my printer as it was shown on the screen. I checked the support area on the software manufacturer's website and I found a patch to download that said it fixed numerous printing problems. After downloading it, installing it, and then test printing, sure enough - that took care of it!"
