patronage

American  

[pey-truh-nij, pa‑] / ˈpeɪ trə nɪdʒ, ˈpæ‑ /

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.

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patronage British  

/ 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

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patronage Cultural  

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.)

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Other Word Forms

• propatronage adjective

Etymology

Origin of patronage

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

Example Sentences

It can be a particular moment in history, exceptional patronage, or certain critical developments that make the great leap forward or great work possible.

From The Wall Street Journal

The “House of Ashur” alternate timeline shows Ashur’s formerly enslaved Syrian having won his freedom and the patronage of Marcus Licinius Crassus, one of the triumvirate of generals uneasily sharing power.

From Salon

Both were made around the end of the 12th century, and their convenient similarity owed to a shift in royal patronage toward Buddhism.

From The Wall Street Journal

And owing to the history of Dutch patronage, Curacaoans are among the most educated people in the Caribbean, with a literacy rate of 97%.

From Los Angeles Times

Reputedly, he kept copies of Austen’s works in all his residences, and her dedication of “Emma” was a response to well-wishers hoping the author might benefit from royal patronage.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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