pat

[pæt]

pat Definition

• 1. to touch someone or something gently and usually repeatedly with the hand flat
• 2. an act of patting someone or something

Using pat: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pat" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She patted the dog on the head.

• Example

  He patted his pockets looking for his keys.

• Example

  The coach gave him a pat on the back for his good performance.

• Example

  I gave her arm a reassuring pat.

pat Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pat

• stroke
• tap
• touch
• caress
• pet

Antonyms for pat

• hit
• slap

Phrases with pat

• a pat on the back

  an expression of praise or approval

  Example

  The boss gave him a pat on the back for his hard work.

• pat down

  to search someone by touching their clothes and body

  Example

  The security guard patted him down before allowing him to enter the building.

• pat on the head

  an expression of condescension or belittlement

  Example

  She felt insulted when her boss gave her a pat on the head for her efforts.

Origins of pat

from Middle English 'patte', meaning 'blow, stroke'

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Summary: pat in Brief

The verb 'pat' [pæt] means to gently touch someone or something with a flat hand, often repeatedly. It can also refer to an act of patting. Common phrases include 'a pat on the back,' which expresses praise or approval, and 'pat down,' which refers to a search by touching clothes and body.