PAT DOWN is a term used to describe a type of SEARCH conducted by law enforcement or security personnel. It involves running the hands over a person's body to check for weapons or contraband. FRISK, which has 5 letters, is a synonym for PAT DOWN and is also used to describe this type of SEARCH. TAMP, with 4 letters, is another term for PAT DOWN and is often used in military contexts. SEARCH, with 6 letters, is the most general term for PAT DOWN and can be used to describe any type of SEARCH, including those conducted by law enforcement or security personnel.