Meaning & Definition of word "Pat"
to
Pat
/pæ t/
noun:
- 1. a light touch or stroke, especially one made with the hand.
- Example: He received a pat on the back for his achievements.
- 2. a flat sound made by striking something lightly.
- Example: The pat of her footsteps echoed in the empty hallway.
- 3. a gentle or affectionate touch.
- Example: A pat from a friend can boost your spirits.
verb:
- 1. to touch lightly or gently, especially in a soothing or affectionate manner.
- Example: She gave the dog a gentle pat on the head.
- 2. to strike lightly with the hand or a flat object.
- Example: He patted the dust off his jacket.
- 3. to move or apply pressure to something with a light touch.
- Example: She patted the surface of the water to calm the ripples.
Etymology
Middle English 'patten', repeated from pat.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pat on the back:
An expression of praise or approval.
pat down:
To search someone by patting their body to find concealed items.
pat yourself on the back:
To congratulate oneself for something achieved.
Related Words
patter:
The act of making a series of quick, light strikes.
patted:
Past form of pat, indicating the completed action.
patty:
A small flattened cake of ground meat or other food.
Slang Meanings of pat
Meaning: A quick, light hit, often used in sports.
Example Sentence: He got a pat from his coach after scoring.
Meaning: A friendly gesture showing approval.
Example Sentence: She gave her teammate a pat after their win.