patsy

¹

[ pat-see ]

noun

, Slang.

, plural pat·sies.

1. a person who is easily swindled, deceived, coerced, persuaded, etc.; sucker.
2. a person upon whom the blame for something falls; scapegoat; fall guy.
3. a person who is the object of a joke, ridicule, or the like.

Patsy

²

[ pat-see ]

noun

1. a male given name, form of Patrick.
2. a female given name, form of Patricia.

patsy

/ ˈpætsɪ /

noun

1. a person who is easily cheated, victimized, etc
2. a scapegoat

Word History and Origins

Origin of patsy¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of patsy¹

C20: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

During his time on Strictly, Windsor was partnered with Patsy Kensit and Anita Dobson as well as Riley, and won the 2011 Children In Need special with presenter Susanna Reid.

From BBC

Social Democratic and Labour Party assembly member for Mid Ulster, Patsy McGlone, said there would be a huge amount of paperwork involved in people being move to new practices.

From BBC

A retired school teacher and grandmother, Patsy Aust's focus was always her family.

From BBC

"Only the best memories of you Patsy and the happiness you have brought to us all," it read.

From BBC

Getting rid of Notre Dame from football schedule to play a patsy?

From Los Angeles Times

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