pattern 1 of 2

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
3
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

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
Grid fleece weaves in about 5 percent elastane (aka Spandex) in a grid-like pattern (hence the name). Scott Gilbertson, Wired News, 18 Apr. 2025 Dress them up with a breezy blouse in a colorful pattern for the ultimate spring ’fit. Clara McMahon, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
Minaya shrouded the monuments in a custom fabric patterned with motifs and vegetation from Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and Black traditions, such as rompe saraguey, a plant used by Indigenous and African populations for revitalization and protection. María Elena Ortiz, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025 Being Mindful About Logical Reasoning An intriguing question is how many examples or instances are needed for generative AI to suitably pattern the underlying logical reasoning from those instances. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pattern
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern
Noun
  • Some of the key graphics include diamond motifs, horizontal stripes, four-directional crosses placed within each diamond and zig-zag patterns reminiscent of the desert mountain landscapes.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Their rebellious sweaters featuring Moldovan folk motifs paired with baggy cargos offer a fresh take on heritage-meets-hype.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • From home births to birth centers, spiritual rituals to structural advocacy, their choices aren’t just personal, but collective.
    Stephanie Long, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025
  • According to a new WalletHub survey, many consumers are planning to skip some of the holiday's traditional rituals like dyeing eggs because of high prices.
    Matt Robison, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Overall, this low-profile keyboard elevates your routine with practical features that make each keystroke both satisfying and efficient.
    Shubham Yewale, PC Magazine, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Some of those lifestyle changes involved optimizing her sleep, ensuring healthy indoor air, incorporating meditation to reduce stress and starting an exercise routine.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Conspicuously anglo human characters resemble the generic design often seen in low-rent CG fare produced overseas: large heads with pristine skin and pronounced facial features.
    Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025
  • The eggs are decorated with dainty florals and swirl designs and include matching ribbons for easy hanging.
    Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • My dad modeled a lot of behavior that really influenced me a lot.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 17 Apr. 2025
  • That means modeling curiosity ourselves, using AI openly and transparently to fuel genuine inquiry rather than as a crutch.
    Catherine Goetze, Time, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Needing a par on No. 18, McIlroy striped his drive, but just hung his wedge approach out to the right and into the green side bunker.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Apr. 2025
  • The grey, striped tabby on Vito Corleone's lap wasn't actually in the original script.
    Devan Coggan, EW.com, 11 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The two were rumored to have dated in the early 2010s and Drake has a habit of writing music about the women in his life.
    Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 18 Apr. 2025
  • His love of travel—through Egypt, Turkey, France, and beyond—informed a lifelong habit of collecting.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • To solve the bedroom’s issues, Galey planned to drywall over the extra door, add thick, arched double wood doors with a lock for privacy and reimagine the layout to make the space feel cozier and more secure.
    Jordan Greene, People.com, 16 Apr. 2025
  • Learn the dining room layout and setup mistakes to avoid when hosting or entertaining.
    Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on pattern

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!