WordGarden.iopat
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈæt/
US
- /ˈpæt/
Meanings
Verb
to touch someone or something lightly with the flat hand, often affectionately or approvingly
Noun
a light touch or tap with the hand
Adjective
too neat, ready-made, or glib, especially in an answer or explanation
Beyond the definition
A "pat" is a light, quick touch or tap, often done with the flat of your hand. You might pat a dog on the head to show affection or pat a friend on the back to offer encouragement. It can feel warm, comforting, or approving, depending on the moment. You can also pat dough into shape or pat your pockets to check that your keys are still there. Sometimes "pat" is a noun too, as in a pat of butter, meaning a small flat piece. Figuratively, to "pat yourself on the back" means to feel proud of a job well done.
To pat something or someone is to touch them gently and quickly with the flat of your hand. It's more than just a random tap; it carries intention, whether that is affection, reassurance, or even mild condescension. Imagine a parent patting a child's back to soothe them, or a coach patting a player on the shoulder after a good play—a clear sign of approval.
The verb "pat" implies a light touch rather than a forceful one. You wouldn't pat a brick wall; you would hit or strike it. But you might pat a baby gently, pat down your pockets to check for your phone, or pat dough into a round shape. The phrase "pat down" can also refer to a security search or to pressing something down lightly, like soil in a garden.
Beyond physical contact, "pat" also has a few other uses. A "pat" can be a small flat piece of something, such as a pat of butter. You might also hear the phrase "a pat answer," which means a reply that sounds too ready or too rehearsed. And as mentioned before, you can pat yourself on the back for an achievement, acknowledging your own success. Whether it describes a gentle touch, a light pressing motion, or a small flat piece, "pat" is usually connected to something light, simple, and controlled.
Examples
- 1
Animal affection
She bent down and patted the dog on the head.
- 2
Searching pockets
He patted his pockets, looking for his keys.
- 3
Food prep
Pat the fish dry with a paper towel before you fry it.
- Patternpat + object + dry
press it lightly with a cloth or paper to remove water
- 4
Security check
The security guard patted him down before he entered the concert.
- Phrasepat someone down
check someone for hidden objects by touching their clothes
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Praise
After the presentation, her manager gave her a pat on the back.
- Phrasea pat on the back
praise or approval
- 6
Too neat
His answer sounded too pat, as if the problem were easy to solve.
- Phrasetoo pat
too simple or neat to seem true
- 7
Skill mastery
She practiced the introduction until she had it down pat.
- Phrasehave something down pat
know or do it perfectly
- 8
Firm decision
When everyone pushed him to change the plan, he stood pat.
- Phrasestand pat
refuse to change your decision or position
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- patnounverbadjectiveadverb
Forms
- patspluralnounverbadjective
- patting-ing formverbnounadjective
- pattedpast tenseverbnounadjective