pet 1 
(p
ĕt)
n.1. An animal kept for enjoyment or companionship.
2. An object of the affections.
3. A person especially loved or indulged; a favorite: the teacher's pet.
adj.1. Kept as a pet: a pet cat.
2. a. Particularly cherished or indulged: a pet grandchild.
b. Expressing or showing affection: a pet name.
3. Being a favorite: a pet topic.
v. pet·ted, pet·ting, pets
v.tr. To stroke or caress gently. See Synonyms at caress.
v.intr. To stroke or fondle amorously.
[Scottish Gaelic peata, tame animal, pet, from Old Irish.]
petter n.