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Definition of piecemeal

piecemeal

/ˈpiːs.miːl/
piece · meal
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piecemeal Lexical Profile

piecemeal Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by unsystematic, partial, or gradual measures taken over a period of time rather than according to a comprehensive plan.

Example

"The committee criticized the piecemeal approach to urban renewal and called for a unified master plan."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adverb

1

In small portions or stages at a time; piece by piece or gradually.

Example

"Because of budget constraints, the historic library was renovated piecemeal over a decade."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

pidgin
pie
piece
piecemeal
piecewise
piecework
pieceworker

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in Middle English as 'pecemele', this hybrid compound combines the Old French 'pece' (piece) with the Old English suffix '-mǣlum', the dative plural of 'mǣl' meaning a fixed time or measure, literally translating to 'a piece at a time'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Piecemeal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/piecemeal
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