Hodgepodge
/ˈhɑːdʒˌpɑːdʒ/
nounB2
Definition
Hodgepodge means a collection or mixture of different things, often in a way that seems messy or not organized. It is used when many different items, ideas, or styles are combined without a clear order or connection.
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See It in Action
A random or messy mixture of different things
- •The recipe was a hodgepodge of spices from different countries.
- •Her closet was a hodgepodge of clothes from many styles and times.
- •The movie was a hodgepodge of comedy, drama, and action scenes.
An informal way to describe something made up of many different parts or ideas
- •The report was a hodgepodge of facts and opinions.
- •Their conversation was a hodgepodge of topics, jumping from one to another quickly.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "hodgepodge" like "mix" (A1 word), but a messy or random mix, not a neat or planned one
- ✓Picture a bowl filled with different kinds of food all mixed together—like fruit, vegetables, and candy—in no special order
- ✓It's the feeling when you see a room full of many different objects, all scattered and not matching
- ✓Sounds like "Hodge-podge" → imagine a "puzzle" that is "jumbled" or "mixed up" in a funny way
- ✓Think of a thrift store shelf where many unrelated things are placed together—clothes, books, toys—all mixed
- ✓NOT like "collection" (which is often organized and themed), hodgepodge is more random and messy
- ✓NOT like "set" (a group with a clear purpose), hodgepodge is just many things thrown together without a plan
Try Other Words
- •Jumble: a confused or messy mixture (Use when emphasizing disorder)
- •Patchwork: a combination of different pieces or parts (Use when parts are combined but still visible separately)
- •Melting pot: a place or situation where many different things or people come together (Use more for cultures or groups)
- •Assortment: a collection of different items (Use when the variety is clear but not necessarily messy)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "hodge" + "podge" (both nonsense-sounding parts combined for effect)
- •Etymology: Originates from Middle English "hochepot," meaning a stew made of many ingredients mixed together
- •Historical development: Originally referred to a mixed stew, later used metaphorically for any mixture of different things
- •Modern usage: Used informally to describe any messy or random mixture of items, ideas, or styles
Reflect & Connect
•Can a hodgepodge ever be a good or creative thing? When might mixing many different things work well?
•How do you feel when you see a hodgepodge of objects or ideas? Does it feel exciting or confusing?
Fill in the blanks
1.The artist's style was a hodgepodge ___ different colors and shapes without a clear pattern.
2.A hodgepodge usually happens when many things are ___ together without planning.
3.Unlike a carefully organized collection, a hodgepodge can feel ___ or chaotic.
4.When someone says "It's a hodgepodge of ideas," they mean the ideas are ___ and not connected smoothly.
5.A hodgepodge often ___ things that do not naturally belong together.
6.You might find a hodgepodge of souvenirs on a traveler's shelf, showing ___ from many places.
7.The recipe was a hodgepodge of ingredients, so the flavors did not ___ well.