pat·tern (păt'ərn)
n.

1. 1. A model or original used as an archetype.
   2. A person or thing considered worthy of imitation.
2. A plan, diagram, or model to be followed in making things: a dress pattern. See synonyms at ideal.
3. A representative sample; a specimen.
4. 1. An artistic or decorative design: a paisley pattern. See synonyms at figure.
   2. A design of natural or accidental origin: patterns of bird formations.
5. A consistent, characteristic form, style, or method, as:
   1. A composite of traits or features characteristic of an individual or a group: one's pattern of behavior.
   2. Form and style in an artistic work or body of artistic works.
6. 1. The configuration of gunshots upon a target that is used as an indication of skill in shooting.
   2. The distribution and spread, around a targeted region, of spent shrapnel, bomb fragments, or shot from a shotgun.
7. Enough material to make a complete garment.
8. A test pattern.
9. The flight path of an aircraft about to land: a flight pattern.
10. Football. A pass pattern.

v., -terned, -tern·ing, -terns.

v.tr.

1. To make, mold, or design by following a pattern: We patterned this plan on the previous one. My daughter patterned her military career after her father's.
2. To cover or ornament with a design or pattern.

v.intr.
To make a pattern.

[Middle English patron, from Old French. See patron.]

---

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

---