pat
verb (used with object)
to strike lightly or gently with something flat, as with a paddle or the palm of the hand, usually in order to flatten, smooth, or shape.
pats
-
pluralof pat.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
On the side were little wheat rolls from The Fresh Market bakery, spread with pats of Kerrygold — a small but perceptible upgrade from the Bunny Bread and Country Crock of a few years earlier.
From Salon ● Sep. 20, 2026
“I’ve always believed that anything is possible and there’s no doubt in here,” and she pats her heart, “because I’ve always felt this immense love for me from another entity.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2026
He pats my arm, then walks me to Jaarsma Bakery and stands in line with me, telling me how good the cake is.
From Slate ● Oct. 22, 2025
The room where we meet has several places to sit, but Chan pats a spot on her couch right next to her.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 21, 2025
Justin pats my covers to make Robin jump onto my bed.
From "A Place at the Table" by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan
