patronize
verb (used with object)
to give (a store, restaurant, hotel, etc.) one's regular patronage; trade with.
patronized
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past participleof patronize.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof patronize.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
patronizeverb (used with object)to give (a store, restaurant, hotel, etc.) one's regular patronage; trade with.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They know when they’re being patronized, even if they don’t always say it.
From Salon ● Nov. 5, 2025
Shops are open, sidewalk cafes are well patronized and cars clog the streets.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 4, 2024
She said the East was largely misunderstood by West Germans — belittled, patronized and often ignored.
From New York Times ● Apr. 26, 2024
That number surpassed the 378,518 who patronized Cheney Stadium in 2011, the first season of the ballpark’s remodeled configuration.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 25, 2023
“I hate to be patronized, and the Chesters think it’s a great favor to allow us to help with their highly connected fair. I wonder you consented, Amy, they only want you to work.”
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
