pat

³pat

verb

pat·tedpat·ting

Definition of PAT

transitive verb

1

: to strike lightly with a flat instrument

2

: to flatten, smooth, or put into place or shape with light blows

3

: to tap or stroke gently with the hand to soothe, caress, or show approval

intransitive verb

: to strike or beat gently

Examples of PAT

1. The child gently patted the dog's head.
2. He patted my knee and told me everything would be fine.
3. He patted his hair down.
4. She patted the dough into a square.
5. He patted the lettuce dry with a paper towel.

First Known Use of PAT

1591

Related to PAT

Synonyms: caress, gentle, love, fondle, pet, stroke

Related Words: bill, canoodle, cuddle, neck, nestle, nose, nuzzle, snuggle, spoon; feel up, paw; cradle, embrace, enfold, hug; bounce, dandle; knead, massage; baby, coddle, indulge, mollycoddle, pamper, spoil

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