plural patterns
1
: a repeated form or design especially that is used to decorate something
The dishes have a floral pattern around the rim.
The fabric comes in different colors and patterns.
The rug is decorated with a geometric pattern.
The shadows made a pattern of lines on the ground.
2
a
: the regular and repeated way in which something happens or is done
They are studying behavior patterns among high-school students.
Analysts are noticing different spending patterns by consumers.
The trees followed a characteristic pattern of growth.
Your symptoms fit the pattern of diabetes. [=your symptoms are the same as the symptoms of diabetes]
His daily routine followed a set pattern. [=it was always the same]
The book set the pattern [=created an example which is followed by others] for detective fiction.
b
: something that happens in a regular and repeated way
We have to find a way to break the pattern of violence. [=to make the violence stop]
3
: a shape or model that is used as a guide for making something
a dress pattern [=a large piece of paper that is used as a guide for cutting the cloth to make a dress]
patterns; patterned; patterning
1
: to make or design (something) so that it is similar to something else of the same type
—usually used as (be) patterned + on or (US) after
Her garden is patterned on [=modeled on] one she saw on her travels.
The new program is patterned after an earlier one.
2
: to decorate or mark (something) with a design : to form a pattern on (something)
Animal tracks patterned the mud.
Cite this Entry
“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/pattern. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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