1. to touch or stroke gently with the hand

1. a gentle touch or stroke with the hand
2. a small portion of butter or other soft substance

1. exactly suitable or appropriate
Usage: often used negatively

1. in an exact or perfect manner

Examples

• She gave the dog a gentle pat on the head.
• He patted his pockets looking for his keys.
• The waitress brought a pat of butter with the bread.
• His answer seemed too pat to be believable.
• She had her speech down pat after hours of practice.
• The teacher patted the student on the shoulder encouragingly.
• I need two pats of butter for this recipe.