pat-a-cake

[ pat-uh-keyk ]

noun

1. a children's game in which a child claps hands alone and with another child while chanting a nursery rhyme.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pat-a-cake¹

First recorded in 1870–75; after the opening words of a rhyme that accompanies such play

Example Sentences

Just imagine our kiddies in the workhouse school getting a whole pat-a-cake to eat!

From Project Gutenberg

Even baby has its "pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake," and is lulled to sleep with visions of a coach and six little ponies.

From Project Gutenberg

Barby stooped to take the little terrier's head between her hands and pat-a-cake it back and forth with an affectionate caress.

From Project Gutenberg