Much used piece of carpeting? (3)

I believe the answer is:

pet

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'much used piece' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their base form.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'of carpeting?' is the wordplay.
'of' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'PET' can be found hidden inside 'carpeting'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pet that I've seen before include "Favourite, perhaps a domestic animal" , "Animal as a companion" , "House animal; sulk" , "Preferred" , "Particular favourite" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.