ˈpat ə n noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English paten, patin, pateyn, from Middle French patin, from pate, patte paw, hoof, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin patta, of imitative origin
1. : a clog, sandal, or overshoe often with a wooden sole or metal device to elevate the foot and increase the wearer's height or aid in walking in mud — compare chopine , geta , platform , sabot
2. Britain : a round wooden plate fastened to the hind feet of horses to prevent their sinking into soft or boggy land that is being plowed or cultivated
3. : an ice skate of an early variety
4. archaic : an architectural base, stand, support, foot, bottom plate, or sill