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

The prince stepped down as a working royal and later lost his military titles and royal patronages and withdrew to a private life at Royal Lodge.

From BBC

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

Amid the controversy, his military titles and royal patronages were returned to the late Elizabeth II.

From BBC

Garfield quickly took a stand in the White House by challenging a powerful U.S. senator and influence-peddler who thrived on such patronage.

From Los Angeles Times

Henson visited the property last summer and again earlier this month, when Simmons posted about it and thanked her for her patronage.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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