Definition of "pat" in English

noun

1. The sound of a light slap or tap with a soft flat object, especially of a footstep.

   • We heard a pat on the door.

2. A light tap or slap, especially with the hands.

   • Give Mary a pat on the shoulder to get her attention.

3. A flattish lump of soft matter, especially butter or dung.

verb

1. To (gently) tap the flat of one's hand on a person or thing.

   • To show affection, he decided he would pat the boy on the head.

2. To hit lightly and repeatedly with the flat of the hand to make smooth or flat

   • I patted the cookie dough into shape.

3. (UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa) To stroke or fondle (an animal). Compare pet.

   • Do you want to pat the cat?

4. To gently rain.

adjective

1. Exactly suitable, fitting, apt; timely, convenient, opportune, ready for the occasion; especially of things spoken.

   • a pat expression

2. Trite, being superficially complete, lacking originality.

adverb

1. Opportunely, in a timely or suitable way.

2. Perfectly.

   • He has the routine down pat.

3. Straight, right, exactly, precisely.

noun

1. Clipping of patent.

2. (knitting) Clipping of pattern.

adjective

1. (slang) Upper-class, nobby.