pattern
UK[ˈpæt(ə)n]US[ˈpætərn]
n
a repeated decorative design
n
a regular and intelligible form or sequence discernible in the way something happens or is done
n
a model, design, or set of instructions for making something
v
to give a regular or decorative form to something
Morpheme Breakdown
patt
ern
patt
model, example
ern
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'pattern' originates from the Middle English 'patron', which itself was borrowed from Old French, meaning a model or example to be copied. This Old French term derived from the Latin 'patronus', signifying a protector or advocate, a role model, which in turn came from 'pater', meaning father—the original model or head of a family. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation shifted from 'patron' to 'pattern' in the 16th century, influenced by the unrelated word 'patern' (of a father), and its meaning specialized from a person serving as a model to an abstract design, plan, or regular sequence that can be reproduced or followed.
Analysis
Structure: patt (model, example) + ern (noun suffix)
patt: From Middle English 'patron', from Old French, meaning "a model, example". Ultimately from Latin 'patronus' (protector, model), from 'pater' (father).
ern: A Middle English noun suffix, often used to form nouns from other words.
Examples
The fabric had an intricate floral pattern.
There is a consistent pattern of behavior in these cases.
She used a paper pattern to cut out the dress.