pat-down

or pat down

[ pat-doun ]

noun

1. an act or instance of passing the hands over the body of a clothed person to detect concealed weapons, drugs, etc.; frisking.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pat-down¹

Noun use of verb phrase pat down

Example Sentences

If the bill passes, police wouldn’t need a warrant or cause to pat down the paroled offender.

From Washington Times

If you experience mild dehydration, without the above symptoms, rest in the shade or indoors with air-conditioning or fans; take a shower or pat down with a damp cloth to cool the body; and slowly drink water, plain or with electrolytes.

From National Geographic

“Unfortunately, there is no clear way to opt out of pat down screenings if you trigger one of the AIT alarms or metal detector alarms,” Christian said in an email.

From Washington Post

Even so, Mr. Marrero said that armed police officers would not pat down students unless they had probable cause.

From New York Times

“I want to go into a building every day where I don’t need to ask if my kids are getting a pat down because I know nobody is bringing guns into the school,” said English teacher Josh Garfinkel.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• audit
• check
• check out
• consider
• criticize
• delve into
• explore
• inspect
• investigate
• ponder
• pore over
• probe
• read
• research
• review
• scan
• screen
• scrutinize
• study
• survey