patronage

[pey-truh-nij, pa‑]

noun

1. the financial support or business provided to a store, hotel, or the like, by customers, clients, or paying guests.

   Synonyms: trade, commerce, custom

2. patrons collectively; clientele.

3. the control of or power to make appointments to government jobs or the power to grant other political favors.

4. offices, jobs, or other favors so controlled.

5. the distribution of jobs and favors on a political basis, as to those who have supported one's party or political campaign.

6. a condescending manner or attitude in granting favors, in dealing with people, etc.; condescension.

   an air of patronage toward his business subordinates.

7. the position, encouragement, influence, or support of a patron, as toward an artist, institution, etc.

8. the right of presentation to an ecclesiastical benefice; advowson.

patronage

/ ˈpætrənɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. the support given or custom brought by a patron or patroness

   2. the position of a patron

2. 1. the practice of making appointments to office, granting contracts, etc

   2. the favours so distributed

3. 1. a condescending manner

   2. any kindness done in a condescending way

4. Christianity the right to present a clergyman to a benefice

patronage

1. The power of a government official or leader to make appointments and offer favors. Once in office, a politician can use patronage to build a loyal following. Though practiced at all levels of government, patronage is most often associated with the machine politics of big cities. (See spoils system.)

Other Word Forms

• propatronage adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of patronage¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Middle French; patron, -age

Example Sentences

Businesses in downtown Los Angeles need the support and patronage of locals in these tough times, Central City Assn.

From Los Angeles Times

In Westminster a lot of power is derived from patronage, as well as feelings of loyalty to a party, plus occasional warnings, threats and arm-twisting.

From BBC

In the first year of Nazi rule in Germany, the Expressionists continued to enjoy Goebbels’ patronage.

From Salon

“We’re starting to hear from small businesses and restaurants in the harbor area that their customer patronage is trending downward,” Seroka said.

From Los Angeles Times

"The public has a right to know whether this was a fair and impartial process, or yet another case of political patronage disguised as due diligence," he said.

From BBC

Related Words

• aegis 
• auspices www.thesaurus.com
• backing 
• encouragement 
• financing 
• sponsorship 
• subsidy