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   Pa·tron·age

   /ˈpatrənəj/

   

   noun

   • 1. the support given by a patron: "the arts could no longer depend on private patronage" Similar sponsorshipbackingfundingfinancingphilanthropypromotionfurtherancehelpaidassistancesupportguarantyencouragementchampionshipadvocacydefenseprotectionguardianshipaegisauspices
   • 2. the power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges: "recruits are selected on merit, not through political patronage" Similar power of appointmentright of appointmentfavoritismnepotismpartisanshippartialitypreferential treatmentthe old boy network
   • 3. a patronizing or condescending manner: "a twang of self-satisfaction—even patronage—about him" Similar condescensionpatronizingdeigningstoopingdisdaindisrespectscorncontemptmockerysnobberysnobbishnessrare:patronization
   • 4. the regular business given to a store, restaurant, or public service by a person or group: "the direct train link was ending because of poor patronage" Similar customtradebusinesscommercetraffickingshoppingbuyingpurchasing
   • 5. (in ancient Rome) the rights and duties or the position of a patron.

   Word Origin late Middle English: from Old French, from patron ‘protector, advocate’ (see patron).

   Scrabble Points: 12

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