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patronage JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/ˈpeɪtɹənɪd͡ʒ/ · pat.ron.age
noun
  1. The act of providing approval and support; backing; championship. His vigorous patronage of the conservatives got him in trouble with progressives.
  2. Customers collectively; clientele; business. The restaurant had an upper-class patronage.
  3. A communication that indicates lack of respect by patronizing the recipient; condescension; disdain. Her patronizing tone made me feel belittled.
verb
  1. To support by being a patron of. The artist was patronized by a wealthy benefactor.
  2. To be a regular customer or client of; to patronize. She patronized the local bookstore every week.
Did you know? The term 'patronage' has been used in politics since the 16th century to describe the practice of a patron supporting a politician or cause in exchange for favors or influence.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 18, 2026