pattern 1 of 2

1
as in motif
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) a coverlet with a nosegay of tiny pink roses as the pattern

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
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as in design
the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged many of the artist's paintings use the same pattern of a lone figure surrounded by a vast landscape

Synonyms & Similar Words

pattern

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun pattern differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of pattern are example, exemplar, ideal, and model. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

When is it sensible to use example instead of pattern?

In some situations, the words example and pattern are roughly equivalent. However, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to pattern?

Although the words exemplar and pattern have much in common, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

In what contexts can ideal take the place of pattern?

The meanings of ideal and pattern largely overlap; however, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

When might model be a better fit than pattern?

The words model and pattern are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pattern
Noun
The new species was identified by its DNA, body proportions, head shape, scale pattern, coloring, teeth and other subtle physical features, the study said. Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 16 June 2025 Other genes then act as modifiers, leading to color dilution, white patches, tabby pattern, and more. Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 June 2025
Verb
Sánchez showed off her toned figure in a leopard-print thong string bikini and a straw bucket hat while Bezos wore a navy blue T-shirt with blue and white patterned swim trunks. Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 24 May 2025 Well, keep in mind that AGI will presumably have patterned on what blackmailing is about. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern
Noun
  • If you’re all flowered out, try ocean motifs instead—think seashells, starfish, or your favorite aquatic animal.
    Catie Pusateri, Glamour, 17 June 2025
  • The silk suit with a jacquard motif of a siren, paying tribute to the Greek mythological Parthenope, proved the sartorial expertise of the brand.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • The ritual completed, my father assessed himself in the mirror.
    Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 14 June 2025
  • All the perfumed unguents and performative rituals of fame are present.
    Jeff Weiss, HollywoodReporter, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • And many would benefit from incorporating an eye serum into their routine, either alone or beneath an eye cream.
    Deanna Pai, Vogue, 25 June 2025
  • According to Yahoo News, investigators believe Coleen Campbell had kept others up to date about her ex-husband’s routine and his whereabouts leading up to the attack.
    Sean Neumann, People.com, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Analyze how people phrase their interactions with LLMs and adjust your content to fit this design pattern.
    Pawel Rzeszucinski, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • Bezos wore a pair of black swim shorts with blue designs on them, also accessorizing with sunglasses and a white bucket hat.
    Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • Last year, the dynamic Dutch duo launched the world’s largest sportfishing yacht, 165-foot Special One, modeled on traditional Carolina sportfishing convertibles but with a custom interior and a 30-knot top speed.
    Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 14 June 2025
  • Ray tracing is a 3D rendering technology that models how light works to produce realistic reflections and lighting effects.
    Zackery Cuevas, PC Magazine, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • La Ligne striped polo sweater $295 NET-A-PORTER Suzie Kondi Banker striped cotton-poplin shorts $275 NET-A-PORTER Opposites Attract Here, a boxy striped polo contrasts with Tory Burch’s mirrored skirt for an irreverent juxtaposition of casual and statement pieces.
    Christina Holevas, Vogue, 20 June 2025
  • Jockeys riding for the syndicate wear blue and white striped silks that match Brighton’s colours.
    Andy Naylor, New York Times, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • Inspired by Napoleon’s habit of using toy soldiers to plot his military battles, the designer dotted the entrance with giant cutouts with gold outlines, and shrouded the floor in smoke.
    Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 18 June 2025
  • No title yet revealed, but the pod will launch mid-July, the duo engage in heartfelt and unfiltered conversations about everyday life such as discuss raising a family, cultivating gardens, home improvements, careers, fostering healthy habits and aging.
    Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 18 June 2025
Noun
  • Inspired by local culture, the patio's layout is a blend of traditional elements and modern sophistication.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
  • Filming herself before layout, Tacconi and her team use real-life video references for each shot, in a workflow reminiscent of rotoscoping, filling her characters with rich emotions and rib-crackingly funny attitudes.
    Kevin Giraud, Variety, 14 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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