Main Entry: ¹pat

Pronunciation: \ˈpat\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English patte, probably of imitative origin

Date: 15th century

1 : a light blow especially with the hand or a flat instrument
2 : a light tapping often rhythmical sound
3 : something (as butter) shaped into a small flat usually square individual portion

— pat on the back : an expression of approval