PAT
1 —verb. (-tt-) 1 strike gently with a flat palm, esp. In affection, sympathy, etc. 2 flatten or mould by patting. —none. 1 light stroke or tap, esp. With the hand in affection etc. 2 sound made by this. 3 small mass (esp of butter) formed by patting. ? pat on the back congratulatory gesture. [probably imitative]