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
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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 of patronage from the Web
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PRI presidents ran Mexico from 1931 to 2000, and the party managed to hold on to power in the state of Mexico long after that, thanks to vast networks of patronage and a support base that reliably delivered at election time.
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While the inclusion of at least one major international act would encourage visitors' patronage, there isn't a more beautiful or relaxed environment to watch previously unknown talents who just might become newfound favorites.
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Federal patronage continued expanding in the decades after the war.
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This, unfortunately, will prove Aum Supreme Truth's lasting legacy: to be the first independent group, without state patronage or protection, to produce biochemical weapons on a major scale.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'patronage'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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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