pattern 1 of 2

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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
Thanks to the intricate texture of the lens, the lights provide a warm, starburst-like pattern that illuminates the surrounding area and looks dazzling to the eye. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 June 2025 The sneakers have bandana scarf patterns that are heavily featured in the designer’s 2025 high summer capsule collection. Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 5 June 2025
Verb
Well, keep in mind that AGI will presumably have patterned on what blackmailing is about. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 Samuel has the traits to pattern match in man, too. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern
Noun
  • Johnson makes paintings and mosaics on square white tiles—often incorporating the material of one of Johnson’s favorite motifs, shea butter, the hearty soul food of moisturizing agents.
    Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 30 May 2025
  • Breton stripes, fisherman sandals, shell motifs—anything that could remind you of the ocean is very much in play, and plenty of it is currently on sale at Nordstrom.
    Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 30 May 2025
Noun
  • Different communities worship different icons and have different ways of performing the rituals.
    Foster Klug, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2025
  • When your workday ends, physically close your laptop, turn off work notifications and transition into personal time with intentional rituals.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
Noun
  • Deliberately cultivate moments of awe in your routine, both with and without AI assistance.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025
  • Venus enters Pisces on January 1 and should support your productivity levels, encouraging a fresh perspective on your daily routines.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 June 2025
Noun
  • The experience of working with elite football clubs exposed Bord to inefficiencies, and the absence of sophisticated algorithms that his company designs.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 31 May 2025
  • The only thing to keep in mind is that, because of their sleek design, the shoe may seem narrow for those with wide feet.
    Karthika Gupta, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2025
Verb
  • President Donald Trump's new Golden Dome missile defense shield for the U.S., designed to protect against next-generation, long-range weapons, is modeled on the Iron Dome.
    Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 June 2025
  • An architect might use AI to model buildings faster, maybe having time to explore his interest in finance.
    Son Nguyen, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
Verb
  • Her upcycled creations featured pastel hues and also striped patches of fabric.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 22 May 2025
  • Janelle Monáe — always one for cheeky sartorial statements — arrived in a black and white bowler hat and monocle, donning an oversized red, black, and white striped jacket printed to look like a suit.
    Gretta Monahan, Boston Herald, 8 May 2025
Noun
  • In addition, he’s also made a habit of gathering a handful of players together every night for a dinner at the Cowboys’ members-only speakeasy restaurant on the top level of The Star in Frisco, Cowboys Club.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 May 2025
  • Standout Interviewee Habits: How to Take Things to the Next Level Deliver a clear personal pitch To stand out from the crowd, Marino-Briggs recommends a few key habits.
    Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
Noun
  • On the top floor, there is a two-bedroom penthouse available with a 550 sq ft. wraparound terrace, as well as three-bedroom option with an even larger terrace, ensuite bathrooms, and an open layout with a dining area, and a lounge area with a daybed and sectional sofa.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 3 June 2025
  • The latter offers a layout featuring a prominent round tachometer in the center of the cluster flanked by customizable displays for the engine’s effort, suspension settings and other monitoring.
    James Raia, Mercury News, 2 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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