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 cause
3 : one who buys the goods or uses the services offered especially by an establishment
4 : the holder of the right of presentation to an English ecclesiastical benefice
5 : a master in ancient times who freed his slave but retained some rights over him
6 [French, from Middle French] : the proprietor of an establishment (as an inn) especially in France
7 : 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