ALL meanings of pat on the back
pat on the back
P p - verb with object pat on the back 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: to pat dough into flat pastry forms. 1
- verb with object pat on the back to stroke or tap gently with the palm or fingers as an expression of affection, approbation, etc. 1
- verb with object pat on the back to strike (the floor, ground, etc.) with light footsteps. 1
- verb without object pat on the back to strike lightly or gently. 1
- verb without object pat on the back to walk or run with light footsteps. 1
- noun pat on the back a light stroke, tap, or blow with the palm, fingers, or a flat object. 1
- noun pat on the back the sound of a light stroke or of light footsteps. 1
- noun pat on the back a small piece or mass, usually flat and square, formed by patting, cutting, etc.: a pat of butter. 1
- idioms pat on the back a pat on the back, a word of praise, congratulations, or encouragement: Everyone needs a pat on the back now and then. 1
- idioms pat on the back pat down, to pat or pass the hands over the body of (a clothed person) to detect concealed weapons, drugs, etc. 1
- idioms pat on the back pat on the back, to praise, congratulate, or encourage: The boss patted him on the back for the deal he made yesterday. 1
- noun pat on the back a gesture or word indicating approval or encouragement 0
- noun pat on the back a compliment or encouragement 0
- noun pat on the back to compliment or praise 0