ˈpa]d.ēˌō, ˈpä], ˈpȧ], ]tēˌō noun
( -s )
Etymology: Spanish, from Old Spanish, untilled land, building lot, courtyard enclosed by columns, probably from Old Provençal patu, pati rented land, rented pasture, pasture, perhaps from Latin pactum agreement, contract — more at pact
1.
a. : the court or courtyard of a house or other building ; especially : an inner court open to the sky
b. : a recreation area adjoining a dwelling, often paved, and adapted especially to outdoor dining
2. : a paved yard or floor where ores are cleaned and sorted or reduced