patroness

[pey-truh-nis]

noun

1. a woman who protects, supports, or sponsors someone or something.

patroness

/ ˈpeɪtrənˌɛs, pəˈtrəʊnəl /

noun

1. a woman who sponsors or aids artists, charities, etc; protector or benefactor

2. See patron saint

Gender Note

See -ess.

Other Word Forms

• subpatroness noun
• patronly adjective
• patronal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of patroness¹

1375–1425; late Middle English patronesse female patron saint < Old French

Word History and Origins

Origin of patroness¹

see _patron