patronage

noun

pa·​tron·​age ˈpa-trə-nij  ˈpā- 

1

: advowson

2

: the support or influence of a patron

the patronage of science by universities

3

: kindness done with an air of superiority

The prince deigned to bestow his patronage on the composer.

4

: business or activity provided by patrons

the new branch library is expected to have a heavy patronage

5

a

: the power to make appointments to government jobs especially for political advantage

oust his enemies from office and use the patronage to support his policies

—H. K. Beale

b

: the distribution of jobs on the basis of patronage

The governor filled the vacated positions through patronage.

c

: jobs distributed by patronage

the government's vast network of patronage

Synonyms

• aegis
• egis
• auspice
• backing
• sponsorship

Examples of patronage in a Sentence

The college relied on the patronage of its wealthy graduates to expand its funds.

They thanked her for her patronage of the new hospital.

The city should do more to encourage patronage of local businesses.

a system of political patronage

Recent Examples on the Web

The line between patronage and participation is starting to blur, and crypto gives that sentiment a technical foundation. —Azeem Khan, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

As monarch, King Charles is the head of the Armed Forces, with his eldest son William and his wife Kate holding several honorary roles and patronages related to the military. —Janine Henni, People.com, 5 May 2025

Fendi’s patronage was a coordinated effort that also involved the Autonomous Institute of Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este — VILLÆ of Tivoli, committed to enhance the site’s heritage. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 16 Apr. 2025

At the end of the 19th century, the Second Industrial Revolution created a class of ultra-wealthy Americans who sought to imitate European royalty and their tradition of patronage. —Joanna Dee Das, The Conversation, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

patronage

noun

pa·​tron·​age ˈpa-trə-nij  ˈpā- 

1

: the support or influence of a patron

2

: business or activity provided by patrons

3

: the power to give out government jobs, contracts, or favors