Definition of patronage
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
5a : 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. Bealeb : 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
From the M-W Editors
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
14th Century
First Known Use of patronage
14th century
PATRONAGE Defined for English Language Learners
patronage
playDefinition of patronage for English Language Learners
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: money and support that is given to an artist, organization, etc.
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: support that is given to a business, library, etc., by buying its goods or using its services
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: the power to give jobs or provide other help to people as a reward for their support
PATRONAGE Defined for Kids
patronage
playDefinition of patronage for Students
1 : the help or business given by a supporter
2 : a group of customers (as of a shop or theater)
3 : the control by officials of giving out jobs, contracts, and favors
Learn More about patronage
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for patronage Spanish Central: Translation of patronage Nglish: Translation of patronage for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of patronage for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about patronage
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