pattern 1 of 2

noun

ˈpa-tərn How to pronounce pattern (audio)
Definition of patternnext
1
as in motif
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) a coverlet with a nosegay of tiny pink roses as the pattern

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2
as in ritual
a usual manner of behaving or doing her daily pattern begins with coffee and a bagel every morning for breakfast

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in routine
an established and often automatic or monotonous series of actions followed when engaging in some activity with her, everything must be done strictly according to pattern

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4
as in design
the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged many of the artist's paintings use the same pattern of a lone figure surrounded by a vast landscape

Synonyms & Similar Words

pattern

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to model

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Dissimilar Words
2
as in to stripe

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Dissimilar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun pattern differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of pattern are example, exemplar, ideal, and model. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

When is it sensible to use example instead of pattern?

In some situations, the words example and pattern are roughly equivalent. However, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to pattern?

Although the words exemplar and pattern have much in common, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

In what contexts can ideal take the place of pattern?

The meanings of ideal and pattern largely overlap; however, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

When might model be a better fit than pattern?

The words model and pattern are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pattern
Noun
Unlike the grooves of a normal road wheel, its surface is almost completely smooth except for small indents, patterned differently between front and back wheel, which are designed to just slightly roughen the air, encouraging the right level of turbulent flow. —Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 11 July 2025 In summer, a patterned knit is an easy go-to with shorts, over a bikini top, or with a flowing midi skirt. —Lane Nieset, Travel + Leisure, 9 July 2025
Verb
This pattern of cold weather followed by warmer temperatures is a common occurrence in the Midwest at this point of summer, National Weather Service senior meteorologist Brett Borchardt said. —Kate Perez, Chicago Tribune, 23 July 2025 The unlocked materials will be able to tell the scientists about past wind patterns, temperature and sea levels, reports Georgina Rannard at the BBC. —Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern
  1. motif
  2. ritual
  3. routine
  4. design
  5. model
  6. stripe
  7. habit
  8. layout
Noun
  • The lounge area gets a stylish refresh, with the House’s iconic Web and Interlocking G motifs splashed in a breezy, seasonal palette.
    — Erica Wertheim Zohar, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Related: The Newest Hotel in Osaka, Japan, Is in One of the City's Most Impressive Buildings, With an On-site Onsen and an 11-acre Park Next Door There are subtle peacock-tail motifs throughout the hotel, from the kumiko woodwork headboards to the washi paper in the elevator.
    — Amber Gibson, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
Definition of motif
Noun
  • By making this a daily ritual for babies, parents can reap the benefits as well.
    — Michelle Stansbury, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • Wilson reportedly collapsed after being punched in the chest during a fraternity ritual.
    — DeMicia Inman, VIBE.com, 21 July 2025
Definition of ritual
Noun
  • After a smooth recovery, Aubergine is back to his daily routine and being closely monitored.
    — Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 19 July 2025
  • All over the internet, people are recreating the couple’s snuggle-and-duck routine and even offering advice for how to react if nabbed in the same awkward position.
    — Leslie Katz, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
Definition of routine
Noun
  • In fact, its influence is still being felt — one obvious example being in the design of the White House’s new pro-Trump news portal, White House Wire, which mimics the look and feel of Drudge’s familiar layout.
    — Andy Meek, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • In design, this translates to soft color palettes and ornate details.
    — Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2025
Definition of design
Verb
  • Cathal Carr, founder of the reinsurance company OAK Re, says that companies like his would generally look at the previous 50–100 years’ worth of data to model risks.
    — Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • Assemblymember Tasha Boerner proposed the state law a few months ago, modeling the bill on a law enforced by New York.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 22 July 2025
Definition of model
Verb
  • Loloi Charlie Outdoor Area Rug For an outdoor rug that is lightweight but still durable, this striped one from Joanna Gaines’ collection is an ideal pick.
    — Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 12 July 2025
  • Lionfish are among the ocean’s most striking creatures—elegant, flamboyantly striped, and surprisingly delicious.
    — Kaila Yu, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
Definition of stripe
Noun
  • The United States has tried repeatedly to wean itself off immigrant employment, but cheap labor is a tough habit to kick.
    — Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 26 July 2025
  • This formula/habit/trend does not typically occur across the pond, so shortening 'Edgware Road' to 'Edgware,' does pose an issue.
    — Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
Definition of habit
Noun
  • Even though many European cities employ map layouts that are far more complex than many American street scenarios, Tesla says that with FSD Supervised, the Model 3 could move through inner-city streets with little human supervision.
    — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
  • Open-concept layouts, expansive kitchen islands, large windows, and natural light throughout give each residence a refined, contemporary feel.
    — Bates Homes, Idaho Statesman, 20 July 2025
Definition of layout

Phrases Containing pattern

Browse Nearby Words

pattering
pattern
patterned
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Cite this Entry

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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