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. 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 Word Forms

• propatronage adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of patronage¹

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

Example Sentences

Prince Andrew has already lost his HRH title and military patronages - and since he's no longer a "working royal" he doesn't have any official royal duties.

Read more on BBC

Vladimir Putin relies heavily on corruption and patronage, with oil and gas serving as key revenue streams.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But her plan ran into strong headwinds in a party where patronage is rampant.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Prince Andrew lost his royal patronages and military titles over the court case brought against him by Ms Giuffre, but he has retained the title of Duke of York.

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Charity patronages are falling off her like autumn leaves, with seven charities no longer wanting to be associated with her as their patron or ambassador.

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Related Words

• aegis 
• auspices www.thesaurus.com
• backing 
• encouragement 
• financing 
• sponsorship 
• subsidy