Main Entry:

pa·tron

Pronunciation:

\ˈpā-trən, for 6 also pa-ˈtrōⁿ\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin & Latin; Medieval Latin patronus patron saint, patron of a benefice, pattern, from Latin, defender, from patr-, pater

Date:

14th century

1 a: a person chosen, named, or honored as a special guardian, protector, or supporter b: a wealthy or influential supporter of an artist or writer c: a social or financial sponsor of a social function (as a ball or concert)2: one that uses wealth or influence to help an individual, an institution, or a cause3: one who buys the goods or uses the services offered especially by an establishment4: the holder of the right of presentation to an English ecclesiastical benefice5: a master in ancient times who freed his slave but retained some rights over him6 [French, from Middle French] : the proprietor of an establishment (as an inn) especially in France7: the chief male officer in some fraternal lodges having both men and women members

— pa·tron·al \ˈpā-trə-n^əl; British pə-ˈtrō-n^əl, pa-\ adjective