Pattern on Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Inspirational Source Use 'pattern on' when showing something is inspired by an existing concept. Her speech was patterned on famous historical addresses. Pro Tip 2/3Not a Copy Means it's not an exact copy, but rather influenced by the style or idea. His technique in painting was patterned on his mentor's approach. Pro Tip 3/3Creative Foundation Highlights a starting point for creativity, not the final design. The architect patterned her designs on nature's forms.