Q: Does the word "patch" mean the same thing in "A patch of clouds." and "Patches of thin ice."?

A: the same meaning

Q: Does the word "beat" mean the same thing in "Beat the drum." and "Beat one's breast."?

A: different meanings

Q: Does the word "swing" mean the same thing in "The soccer player began to swing at the referee." and "He swung his left fist."?

A: different meanings

Q: Does the word "rub" mean the same thing in "Rub my hands." and "The cat rubbed itself against my leg."?

A:
the same meaning