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

• 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

For years, Daley’s powerful Democratic Party machine ruled Chicago through patronage. —Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2025

Instead, Palestinian leaders have concentrated power, using patronage and violence to preserve their rule. —Sean Durns, The Washington Examiner, 6 June 2025

Both undertake many solo engagements for their respective patronages and causes, or partner with their spouses for public work. —Janine Henni, People.com, 6 June 2025

The movement was founded in part on the belief that judicial appointments should be guided by ideology, not patronage, Professor Yoo told The New York Times. —Henry Gass, Christian Science Monitor, 4 June 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