Pad

From DNBWiki

Pads are synthesised sounds which are atmospheric. They are typically characterised (and distinguished from leads) by a slow attack and release time on their amplitude envelop, stereo width and large amounts of reverb in the mix.

[edit] Common sources of pads

Typical subtractive synths do not really lend themselves to creating the full range of pad sounds, so usage of other synthesis methods such as FM, additive, granular or sample and synthesis is common.

Popular software plugins for pads: