pattern

¹pat·tern

noun \ˈpa-tərn\

Definition of PATTERN

1

: a form or model proposed for imitation : exemplar

2

: something designed or used as a model for making things <a dressmaker's pattern>

3

: an artistic, musical, literary, or mechanical design or form

4

: a natural or chance configuration <frost patterns> <the pattern of events>

5

: a length of fabric sufficient for an article (as of clothing)

6

a : the distribution of shrapnel, bombs on a target, or shot from a shotgun b : the grouping made on a target by bullets

7

: a reliable sample of traits, acts, tendencies, or other observable characteristics of a person, group, or institution <a behavior pattern> <spending patterns>

8

a : the flight path prescribed for an airplane that is coming in for a landing b : a prescribed route to be followed by a pass receiver in football

9

: test pattern

10

: a discernible coherent system based on the intended interrelationship of component parts <foreign policy patterns>

11

: frequent or widespread incidence <a pattern of dissent> <a pattern of violence>

— pat·terned \-tərnd\ adjective

— pat·tern·less adjective

Examples of PATTERN

1. The dishes have a floral pattern around the rim.
2. The fabric comes in different colors and patterns.
3. The rug is decorated with a geometric pattern.
4. The shadows made a pattern of lines on the ground.
5. They are studying behavior patterns among high-school students.
6. Analysts are noticing different spending patterns by consumers.
7. The trees followed a characteristic pattern of growth.

Origin of PATTERN

Middle English patron, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin patronus

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PATTERN

Synonyms: design, figure, motif, motive

Related Words: scheme; device; adornment, caparison, decoration, embellishment, frill, garnish, ornament, trim

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at model

Other Handicraft Terms

biscuit, darn, tambour, wrought

Rhymes with PATTERN

Saturn, slattern