pat
pat Lexical Profile
pat Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To touch quickly and gently with the flat of the hand, especially as a sign of affection, comfort, or approval.
"The veterinarian paused to pat the nervous dog gently on the head before beginning the examination."
To press or flatten lightly with the hands or a flat implement in order to shape, smooth, or dry something.
"Use a clean paper towel to pat the fish fillets dry before seasoning them with salt and pepper."
• noun
A light, gentle stroke or tap with the flat of the hand, typically given as a gesture of affection, encouragement, or sympathy.
"The coach gave the exhausted runner an encouraging pat on the shoulder after the race."
A small, flat, moulded portion or square of a soft substance, especially butter.
"She placed a small pat of butter atop the warm stack of pancakes."
• adjective
Learned, known, or mastered thoroughly and exactly.
"After weeks of rehearsal, the actors had their lines down pat before opening night."
Simple and somewhat glib, unconvincing, or lacking depth, especially of an answer or explanation.
"The spokesperson offered a pat explanation that failed to address the underlying systemic issues."
• adverb
In a prompt, timely, or thoroughly prepared manner, or without changing one's position.
"The committee decided to stand pat on the current budget allocation despite calls for revision."
• Rhymes for pat
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in Middle English as 'patten', the word is likely imitative of the sound of a light blow or footstep.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.