WordValepatronage
granting jobs or favors in exchange for political support
In more detail
1. (noun) the support and encouragement that a person or organization gives to someone or something, especially financial support
2. (noun) the customers of a business or the clients of a professional person
Examples
- 1. The museum receives patronage from wealthy donors and the government.
- 2. The restaurant depends on local patronage to stay in business.
How to use patronage
Patronage typically denotes support given by someone of higher status or influence to an artist, institution, or cause, often with cultural or historical prestige attached. In business contexts, it means regular customer support. The word can carry nuances of both generosity and power imbalance, and should not be confused with patronizing behavior (being condescending).
Common phrases
- under the patronage of
- royal patronage
- church patronage
- artistic patronage
- secure patronage
- extend patronage to
Synonyms
support · sponsorship · backing · protection · custom
Word family
patron · patronize · patronizing
A common mistake
Learners often confuse patronage with patronizing; patronage is support given, while patronizing is treating someone with condescension.
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