pat Synonyms
Another word for pat
• verb (Context 1)
To touch quickly and gently with the flat of the hand, especially as a sign of affection, comfort, or approval.
"The veterinarian paused to stroke the nervous dog gently on the head before beginning the examination."
• noun (Context 2)
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 tap on the shoulder after the race."
• verb (Context 3)
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 dab the fish fillets dry before seasoning them with salt and pepper."
• noun (Context 4)
A small, flat, moulded portion or square of a soft substance, especially butter.
"She placed a small square of butter atop the warm stack of pancakes."
• adjective (Context 5)
Learned, known, or mastered thoroughly and exactly.
"After weeks of rehearsal, the actors had their lines down mastered before opening night."
• adjective (Context 6)
Simple and somewhat glib, unconvincing, or lacking depth, especially of an answer or explanation.
"The spokesperson offered a glib explanation that failed to address the underlying systemic issues."
• adverb (Context 7)
In a prompt, timely, or thoroughly prepared manner, or without changing one's position.
"The committee decided to stand firm on the current budget allocation despite calls for revision."
Opposites of pat
The opposite of pat shifts depending on context. Common opposites include: