PATTERNS Synonyms: 186 Similar and Opposite Words

patterns 1 of 2

noun

plural of pattern

as in motifs

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) a coverlet with a nosegay of tiny pink roses as the pattern

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in habits

a usual manner of behaving or doing her daily pattern begins with coffee and a bagel every morning for breakfast

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in routines

an established and often automatic or monotonous series of actions followed when engaging in some activity with her, everything must be done strictly according to pattern

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in layouts

the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged many of the artist's paintings use the same pattern of a lone figure surrounded by a vast landscape

Synonyms & Similar Words

patterns

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of pattern

as in models

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

misadjusts

as in stripes

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of patterns

Noun

While mosquitoes are remarkably adaptable animals, scientists have repeatedly demonstrated that their numbers and territory are expanding as the planet warms and weather patterns change. — New Atlas, 25 Aug. 2026 Smoke impacts will depend on daily fire behavior, containment efforts, and shifting wind patterns over the coming days. — James Ward, USA Today, 25 Aug. 2026 Looking further backwards at spending patterns paints a clearer image of where spending power lies in the Premier League. — Andy Naylor, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 Warm, Cozy, and Inviting Rosy hues, scalloped edges, and floral patterns are synonymous with romance books because of the warm, fluttery feeling a good love story leaves the reader with. — Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Aug. 2026 The third patent addresses measurements taken from 2D patterns corresponding to simulated 3D clothing. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 25 Aug. 2026 Real estate is sensitive to interest rates, economic confidence, inventory levels, seasonal patterns—conditions that no one at Luxury Presence influences. — Malte Kramer, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 Roselli said investigators on the case are busy developing a psychological profile for Horsch and identifying patterns. — Nate Sylves, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026 These boom-bust patterns are only identifiable with hindsight. — Jenni Reid, CNBC, 18 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for patterns

Noun

Repetitive motifs in various shapes were her trademark, resembling netting, swirls or worms, but most often dots, dancing proudly on her canvases or as sparkling balls or dots of light in her installations in all their vibrant, psychedelic glory.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026
Her looks often incorporated classic country motifs like cowboy hats or bell-bottom jeans, though usually made Dolly-appropriate with a healthy helping of sparkles and vibrant hues.

— Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of motifs

Noun

One of the newest members of the billionaire club, Scale AI cofounder Lucy Guo, is a more recent example of someone whose spending habits have remained relatively modest as her fortune has soared.

— Preston Fore, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2026
Tracks stool consistency, hydration, urinary health and bathroom habits.

— Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of habits

Noun

Azalea Group Palmares' flagship apartments provide a variety of layouts to suit various group sizes for those looking for more room and seclusion.

— Jeff Goudy, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
The curriculum prepares students for future education and careers in creative industries, requiring them to analyze, design and render complex graphics, package design, typography, layouts, corporate brand identities and web interfaces.

— Cam'ron Hardy, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of layouts

Verb

Its price shapes inflation and household spending, making virtually every investor exposed to its swings directly or otherwise, said market watchers.

— Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026
Trustworthiness beliefs also aren’t the only thing that shapes whether someone follows expert advice.

— John C. Besley, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of shapes

Noun

But Jarmond later worked with a search committee that included prominent UCLA figures Bob Myers, Adam Peters and Casey Wasserman on the hiring of Bob Chesney, who quickly injected hope and optimism into the football program.

— Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
The backlash went beyond online and reached political figures like New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who sent The Met committee a letter urging them to reconsider honoring Galliano.

— Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of figures

Noun

At the end of 10 days, my program participants learned the value of merit-making and felt benefit from performing rituals.

— Brooke Schedneck, The Conversation, 24 Aug. 2026
Bridesmaid Helena Heyman hosted the couple and their wedding party in Malibu for sound healing, shamanic rituals, and cacao and rose ceremonies on the sacred Chumash land.

— Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of rituals

Browse Nearby Words

patternless

patterns

patters

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Style

“Patterns.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patterns. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of patterns

noun

verb

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