patterning

noun

pat·​tern·​ing ˈpa-tər-niŋ 

1

: decoration, composition, or configuration according to a pattern

2

: physical therapy especially for neurological impairment based on a theory holding that repeated manipulation of body parts to simulate normal motor developmental activity (such as crawling or walking) promotes neurological development or repair

Examples of patterning in a Sentence

The wallpaper is decorated with floral patterning.

Recent Examples on the Web

The dress featured a shimmering design with art deco patterning and was adorned with feathers at the bottom of the skirt. —Maggie Clancy, WWD, 3 Nov. 2024

On Monday, May 1, Mercury comes into an exact alignment with the sun in Taurus, allowing space for new insight and information regarding a relationship in your life, or your patterning in relationships in general, especially related to community or friendships. —Kirah Tabourn, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2023

Juxtaposing varieties of graphic patterning across the entire surface is a way to define space. —Sarah Lehrer-Graiwer, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2024

Citizen scientists helped uncover the species, which though similar to another laughing tree frog, has a longer laugh and less distinct black and yellowish patterning. —Julie Depenbrock, NPR, 13 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

patterning

noun

pat·​tern·​ing

: physical therapy especially for neurological impairment based on a theory holding that repeated manipulation of body parts to simulate normal motor developmental activity (as crawling or walking) promotes neurological development or repair