pattern

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A repeated decorative design of shapes, lines, or colours.

   The wallpaper had a pretty floral pattern.

2. 2
   noun

   A regular way in which something happens or is done.

   The doctor noticed a pattern in the patient's headaches.

3. 3
   noun

   A model or example used as a guide to copy or imitate.

   The new constitution provided a pattern for many other republics.

4. 4
   verb

   To make or shape something by following an example or model.

   The army was patterned after the French system.

From earlier patten, paterne, from Middle English patron (“patron; example”), from Old French patron, from Medieval Latin patrōnus (“patron”). Doublet of padrone, patron, Patronus, and patroon.

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