Gently touching or tapping someone or something repeatedly with your hand, usually in a friendly or soothing way.
From Old English 'pattian' meaning to strike lightly; evolved from imitative origins representing the sound of light tapping, common in Germanic languages.
Patting a dog releases oxytocin in both you and the dog—the same bonding chemical that connects parents to babies. It's why petting feels so calming even though it's just repetitive touching.
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