patted

verb

past tense of pat
as in caressed
to touch or handle in a tender or loving manner affectionately patted the baby on the head

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of patted Merrill helped Tatis to his feet and patted him on the chest. — CBS News, 31 July 2026 When an excitable teenager cut in front of my dad, Frankenstein — without saying a word — gestured for the kid to be patient and wait, patted my dad on the back and posed for a picture. — Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026 That fluffy powder is gently patted into cups and flavored with various syrups, such as lime or strawberry. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 10 July 2026 One of his lawyers, Benjamin Zeman, patted the director's back. — ABC News, 29 June 2026 Benji separated from Zack, patted the spot on the bed between them, and then opened up his arm as an invitation. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 18 June 2026 Next, apply a lipstick or lip stain with a matte finish—ideally patted on with your fingers—to finish it off. — Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 17 June 2026 Wemby walked over and patted him a couple of times on the back. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 11 June 2026 The guard then patted Clark on the shoulder. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for patted
  1. caressed
  2. stroked
Verb
  • Kikuko cried out as her father’s hand slowly caressed her chest.
    — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Electric Bleu is French food caressed with California seasonality and the occasional pop of Aussie nostalgia.
    — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2026
Definition of caressed
Verb
  • Afterwards, as Cheogyal puts it, the spiritual leader stroked his head with compassion.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • But Argentina’s talisman stroked it wide of the net.
    — David Hickey, NBC news, 23 June 2026
Definition of stroked

Browse Nearby Words

patsy
patted
patted down
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Patted.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patted. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on patted

Nglish: Translation of patted for Spanish Speakers

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