pattern 1 of 2

Definition of patternnext
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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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

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verb

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

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
Tie the vine to the stake in a figure eight pattern, looping twine around the stake, crossing in the middle, and looping around the tomato vine. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2026 The results were colorful, bursting with shapes and patterns, but often totally bizarre. Gabe Montesanti, PEOPLE, 19 Apr. 2026
Verb
Tri-City’s affiliation is patterned on a very similar lease of Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa, which Sharp has run since 1991. Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Dec. 2025 The Chapter 02 lineup includes wrap coats in twin layers of double-faced wool; reversible jackets with one side plain, the other patterned, and crinkled unisex trenchcoats that pack up neatly into a travel pouch, printed with a bicycle pattern drawn from Veldkamp’s art, among other key items. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern
Noun
  • Dec-aura points are the decor version—the design, decoration, and styling motifs that elevate a space into something undeniably chic, magnetic, and inviting.
    Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 22 Apr. 2026
  • Mathematicians hope that these intricate motifs will point them toward deeper topological features of individual knots.
    Erica Klarreich, Quanta Magazine, 22 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Celebrating love is universal, but the exact rites and rituals vary.
    Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 11 Apr. 2026
  • For many, the day is less a one-time outing and more a ritual.
    Michael Howes, Baltimore Sun, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Eventually, people could not resist returning to their lives, to routines more comfortable than standing in the streets with the sun glaring in your eyes, squinting up to check the position of snipers on a roof, or working with cramping fingers sewing your tenth mask of the night.
    Hanif Abdurraqib, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Anti-war activists and those who oppose Pahlavi describe a climate of fear that has led some to notify police and change their routines.
    Adam Geller, Los Angeles Times, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The satchel design is great for everyday use and looks great with a casual outfit like Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Garner’s jean looks.
    Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The show originated at a design museum in Saint-Étienne; Musée des Arts et Métiers has supplemented it with lemons from its permanent collection, such as the ten-hour decimal-time clock, used during the French Revolution.
    Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • According to the results, the find could greatly reshape research and improve the way scientists model supernova explosions.
    Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Municipal leadership should model the very best of democratic governance.
    Denise Horland, Sun Sentinel, 20 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The earliest versions of Visa cards share its blue, white and gold striped pattern but little of the present-day technology.
    Brandon Holveck, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Vertical slats of glazed terra-cotta on ARO’s addition block the glare, soften the surface, and stripe the view from inside the gallery.
    Justin Davidson, Curbed, 14 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Choose a single habit to reinforce, such as taking a ten-minute stretch break during your longest task.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Simple habits like hydration, fiber intake, coffee, physical activity, and proper posture can help stimulate bowel movements.
    Sherri Gordon, Health, 16 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • All 39 have different layouts, views, and furnishings, and some feature pieces from the historic Ritz Paris, bought at the renovation auction of 2016.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2026
  • This tiny house keeps things simple with a single-level layout that sleeps up to two people.
    Adam Williams April 11, New Atlas, 11 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

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