pat (one) on the back

To praise one. Treating his daughter to ice cream was Joe's way of giving patting her on the back after she won first place in the science fair. The only reason he stays late at work is so the boss will pat him on the back.

pat someone on the back

express approval of or admiration for someone.

See also: back, on, pat, someone

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

See also:

pat (one) on the back
pat on the back
a pat on the back
give (oneself or someone) a pat on the back
give somebody/yourself a pat on the back
pay (one) back in (one's) own coin
pay someone back in their own coin
a word of praise is equal to ointment on a sore
ointment
mutual

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