patronize
[ pey-truh-nahyz, pa‐ ]
/ ˈpeɪ trəˌnaɪz, ˈpæ‐ /
Save This Word!
verb (used with object), pa·tron·ized, pa·tron·iz·ing.
to give (a store, restaurant, hotel, etc.) one's regular patronage; trade with.
to behave in an offensively condescending manner toward: a professor who patronizes his students.
to act as a patron toward (an artist, institution, etc.); support.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Also especially British, pa·tron·ise .
OTHER WORDS FROM patronize
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use patronize in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for patronize
patronize
patronise
/ (ˈpætrəˌnaɪz) /
verb
to behave or treat in a condescending way
(tr) to act as a patron or patroness by sponsoring or bringing trade to
Derived forms of patronize
patronizer or patroniser, nounCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012