What does pat mean?
“Pat” is a familiar word for a light touch or tap with the hand. Used as a noun, it can describe the action itself, as in “a pat on the head,” and it can also refer to a small flattened portion of a soft food, especially butter or cheese. Used as a verb, “to pat” means to touch or tap lightly, often repeatedly, as when soothing a child, comforting a friend, or encouraging someone. The phrase “give someone a pat on the back” is especially idiomatic: literally, it describes a friendly touch, and figuratively, it means to praise or reassure someone. The word is equally natural in British and American English and is usually gentle and affectionate in tone, although the related verb “slap” is deliberately more forceful.
A light touch or tap made with the hand; a small flat portion of a soft food.
"He gave the door a pat, but no one answered."
The food sense is especially common in the phrase "a pat of butter."
To touch or tap someone or something lightly, usually with the hand and often more than once.
"She patted the dog gently until it calmed down."
The action is generally gentle and deliberate, and the phrase "pat someone on the back" can mean to praise or encourage them.
The plural is used for individual touches or taps and for small portions of food.
"She exchanged a few quiet pats with the horse."
A pat on the back can mean either encouragement or a friendly touch, making this small word a quiet signal of approval and affection.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pat come from?
The precise origin of “pat” is uncertain. The noun and verb have been used in English for a light hand movement since at least the early modern period, and the word also has older senses connected with a gentle stroke or tap. Its development is parallel to related forms in several European languages, but a single definite source cannot be stated with confidence.
Related word forms
How pat is actually used
The word is common in informal and neutral contexts. As a verb, it describes a light, deliberate touch rather than a forceful blow; in expressions such as "pat on the back," it is also idiomatic for approval or encouragement.
Easily confused with pat
A pat is a light tap or touch, whereas a pate is the top or crown of the head, especially when covered by hair.