pat
verb · noun · adjective · adverb
Simple meaning
To tap the flat of one's hand on a person or thing.
Pronunciation
Say it like this:
patIPA pronunciation (US)
ˈpæt
This word is pronounced essentially the same in American and British English, so one transcription covers both.
IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) is a standard way of writing speech sounds.
Definition
Everyday modern meanings first, grouped by part of speech.
verb
To (gently) tap the flat of one's hand on a person or thing.
To hit lightly and repeatedly with the flat of the hand to make smooth or flat
To gently rain.
UKAustraliaNew ZealandSouth Africa
To stroke or fondle (an animal). Compare pet.
noun
A light tap or slap, especially with the hands.
A flattish lump of soft matter, especially butter or dung.
A diminutive of the male given name Patrick.
A diminutive of the female given name Patricia.
An official document granting an appointment, privilege, or right, or some property or title; letters patent.
adjective
Exactly suitable, fitting, apt; timely, convenient, opportune, ready for the occasion; especially of things spoken.
Trite, being superficially complete, lacking originality.
adverb
Opportunely, in a timely or suitable way.
Perfectly.
Straight, right, exactly, precisely.
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Dictionary data from Wiktionary via the Free Dictionary API. Simple meanings, combinations and word intelligence are built from verified reference data, no AI is used to load this page.