# patting

/ˈpætɪŋ/ (US) · /pˈætɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/patting
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

to touch someone or something gently with your hand, usually to show you care or to check if something is soft.

For teachers: to touch or stroke gently with the hand, often as a sign of affection or to test the texture of a surface.

## Examples

- He is patting the dog's head to show it he is happy.
- The salesperson is patting the leather chair to show the customer how soft and comfortable it is.
- By patting the horse's neck, the groom was able to calm the animal before leading it into the stable for the night.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.