pat

Pat is a given name and nickname commonly used in English-speaking countries. It is often a diminutive form of Patrick (masculine) or Patricia (feminine). The name Patrick itself derives from Latin Patricius, meaning “patrician.”

As a standalone given name, Pat is used in its own right in addition to being a nickname. It is occasionally used as a surname, though this is uncommon.

Notable people named Pat include Pat Benatar, Pat Sajak, Pat Morita, Pat Tillman, Pat Nixon, Pat Riley, and Pat Boone.

In other uses, pat can function as an adjective meaning glib or superficial, as in a pat answer, or as a noun for a light touch or a pat-down.