a pat on the back

noun phrase

informal
: a show of praise or approval
You all deserve a pat on the back for making this possible.
You did a great job, so give yourself a pat on the back.

Examples of a pat on the back in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
One of those blocks earned a pat on the back from Nikola Jokic, who was sidelined in street clothes when Watson rejected a corner 3-point attempt next to the home bench. — Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 25 Mar. 2025 Then, Vin Diesel stops Brody for a handshake and, as Brody inches closer to the bar at the center of the room, Jon Hamm gives him a pat on the back. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 3 Mar. 2025

Rhymes for a pat on the back

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Browse Nearby Words

apatite
a pat on the back
Apatornis
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“A pat on the back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%20pat%20on%20the%20back. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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