purple patch

1. A section of writing that is showy and extravagant and often stands out in contrast to the rest of the writing in a piece. I don't want to see a single purple patch in these research papers, class. Focus on communicating the facts!

2. A period marked by much success or good luck. Primarily heard in UK. After falling behind early, the team hit a purple patch and scored three quick goals to tie the game. We had few lean years, but our business is finally in a purple patch now, thank goodness.

a purple patch

an ornate or elaborate passage in a literary composition.

This term is a translation of Latin purpureus pannus , and comes from the Roman poet Horace's Ars Poetica: ‘Works of serious purpose and grand promises often have a purple patch or two stitched on, to shine far and wide’.

See also: patch, purple

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

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References in periodicals archive

VVS Laxman -- Dhawan's mentor in the IPL franchise -- feels that the left- hander is going through a purple patch and he should capitalise on it by scoring tons of runs.

" When you hit a purple patch, it means that you are scoring consistently and your mind is full of positive thoughts.

VVS wants Dhawan to keep up good work

EUROSCEPTIC party UKIP is enjoying a purple patch having seen its membership soar by more than a third in the West Midlands.

UKIP in purple patch as number of Midland members up a third

That's one guy who's definitely hit a purple patch...

Jen's reunited; with, shock horror, last year's bikini.

Spanish football is in the middle of a purple patch, confidence is high, and Jose Antonio Camacho has numerous quality players.

Football: Euro 2000 - The Expert's View: Gerry Armstrong

ADORABLE polar bear Pelusa is going through a purple patch that looks cute - but is agonising.

Unbearable condition

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