0 to touch someone or something gently and usually repeatedly with the hand flat: --
He patted my head/patted me on the head affectionately.
2 a small flat piece, especially of butter --
3 A pat answer or remark has been previously prepared, so that it is said quickly and without any real thought: --
4 to touch someone or something lightly and repeatedly with an open hand: --
Pat the vegetables dry with a paper towel.
He patted me on the shoulder.
5 a small, flat piece of butter --
He patted her arm reassuringly.
He patted her on the back affectionately.
She patted him on the head as she went past.