pal·pate 1  (pāl'pāt')  tr.v. pal·pat·ed, pal·pat·ing, pal·pates To examine or explore by touching (an organ or area of the body), usually as a diagnostic aid. See Synonyms at touch. [Latin palpāre, palpāt-, to touch gently; see pāl- in Indo-European roots.] pal·pa'tion n., pal'pa'tor n., pal'pa·tor'y (-pə-tôr'ē, -tōr'ē) adj. |