I. ˈpet noun
Etymology: perhaps back-formation from Middle English pety small — more at petty
Date: 1508
1.
a. : a pampered and usually spoiled child
b. : a person who is treated with unusual kindness or consideration : darling
2. : a domesticated animal kept for pleasure rather than utility
II. adjective
Date: 1584
1. : kept or treated as a pet
2. : expressing fondness or endearment
a pet name
3. : favorite
a pet project
III. verb
( pet·ted ; pet·ting )
Date: 1629
transitive verb
1.
a. : to treat as a pet
b. : to stroke in a gentle or loving manner
2. : to treat with unusual kindness and consideration : pamper
intransitive verb
: to engage in amorous embracing, caressing, and kissing : neck
• pet·ter noun
IV. noun
Etymology: origin unknown
Date: 1581
: a fit of peevishness, sulkiness, or anger
resigned in a pet
V. intransitive verb
( pet·ted ; pet·ting )
Date: 1629
: to take offense : sulk
VI. abbreviation
petroleum