patronage

[ pey-truh-nij, pa‑ ]

noun

1. the financial support or business provided to a store, hotel, or the like, by customers, clients, or paying guests.

   Synonyms: trade, commerce, custom

2. patrons collectively; clientele.
3. the control of or power to make appointments to government jobs or the power to grant other political favors.
4. offices, jobs, or other favors so controlled.
5. the distribution of jobs and favors on a political basis, as to those who have supported one's party or political campaign.
6. a condescending manner or attitude in granting favors, in dealing with people, etc.; condescension:

   an air of patronage toward his business subordinates.

7. the position, encouragement, influence, or support of a patron, as toward an artist, institution, etc.
8. the right of presentation to an ecclesiastical benefice; advowson.

patronage

/ ˈpætrənɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. the support given or custom brought by a patron or patroness
   2. the position of a patron
2. in politics
   1. the practice of making appointments to office, granting contracts, etc
   2. the favours so distributed
3. 1. a condescending manner
   2. any kindness done in a condescending way
4. Christianity the right to present a clergyman to a benefice

patronage

1. The power of a government official or leader to make appointments and offer favors. Once in office, a politician can use patronage to build a loyal following. Though practiced at all levels of government, patronage is most often associated with the machine politics of big cities. ( See spoils system .)

Other Words From

• pro·patron·age adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of patronage¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Middle French; patron, -age

Example Sentences

Secondly, the power of patronage.

From BBC

It is what is known as a “dynastic order of chivalry”; that is, an order under the patronage of a royal family.

From Slate

But we couldn’t resist resurfacing a handful of other stories of Trump pardon recipients, some of whom may not be poised to reassert political power but who definitely have fascinating backstories, and who help illustrate Trump’s personal patronage philosophy.

From Slate

For example, the Royal African Company, founded in the 17th Century under royal patronage, has been claimed as transporting more enslaved people from Africa across the Atlantic than any other company.

From BBC

Liz was given the opportunity to take photos of the investiture, featuring cyclist Mark Cavendish and ex-footballer Ally McCoist, after Prince William heard about Liz through his patronage of London Air Ambulance Charity.

From BBC

Related Words

• aegis
• auspices
• backing
• encouragement
• financing
• sponsorship
• subsidy