1
as in to condescend
to assume or treat with an air of superiority
a director with an unpleasant habit of patronizing even his most gifted actors
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in to endorse
to promote the interests or cause of
a company that loyally patronizes the arts
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of patronize
In Minneapolis, meat raffles are held each Friday night in the 1029 Bar, a spot often patronized by police officers.
—
ABC News, 15 Apr. 2026
Biddle’s letter joined a groundswell of support from citizens ranging from unemployed artists to Roosevelt’s own advisers, encouraging the US government to similarly patronize the arts for public benefit.
—John P. Murphy, ARTnews.com, 5 Apr. 2026
But ultimately, there’s nothing more appealing than a straight guy who can genuinely queen out about the important things in life (the aforementioned celeb goss, duh) without zoning out or seeming patronizing.
—Emma Specter, Vogue, 30 Mar. 2026
They are patronized by families on their third and fourth generations.
—Charlotte Observer, 20 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for patronize
ABC News, 15 Apr. 2026
Biddle’s letter joined a groundswell of support from citizens ranging from unemployed artists to Roosevelt’s own advisers, encouraging the US government to similarly patronize the arts for public benefit.
—John P. Murphy, ARTnews.com, 5 Apr. 2026
But ultimately, there’s nothing more appealing than a straight guy who can genuinely queen out about the important things in life (the aforementioned celeb goss, duh) without zoning out or seeming patronizing.
—Emma Specter, Vogue, 30 Mar. 2026
They are patronized by families on their third and fourth generations.
—Charlotte Observer, 20 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for patronize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for patronize
Verb
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Ross described strict rules and constant shouting from guards and condescending treatment at the detention facility in Louisiana.—
Jade le Deley,
Los Angeles Times,
12 May 2026
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That is, until she’s condescended by her chic coworker Emily (Emily Blunt), admonished by Miranda, and given a makeover by Runway art director Nigel (Stanley Tucci).—
Jami Ganz,
New York Daily News,
1 May 2026
Verb
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The president endorsed Paxton in the final days of the runoff, bucking Senate leadership’s preference of a Cornyn-Talarico ballot.—
Eleanor Dearman,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
27 May 2026
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Because of my proven record, I am endorsed by almost 400,000 teachers, local superintendents and school leaders, and school employees statewide, represented by the California Federation of Teachers, Association of California School Administrators, and California School Employees Association.—
Mercury News Editorial Board,
Mercury News,
27 May 2026
Verb
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With multiple lawsuits and an impending Supreme Court ruling poised to shape TPS nationwide, advocates hail the Lebanese extension but warn that hundreds of thousands still lack a permanent solution.—
Gisela Salomon,
Los Angeles Times,
29 May 2026
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Even as a non-member, I’ve been actively engaged in advocating for our community, pushing for stronger mitigation for small businesses, better communication with residents, and a more balanced approach that considers both the importance of transportation and resident needs.—
Mercury News Editorial Board,
Mercury News,
29 May 2026
Verb
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The shortstop also rocketed a 441-foot, two-run home run off Giants right-hander Keaton Winn in the eighth to cut San Francisco’s lead to 4-3.—
Patrick Saunders,
Denver Post,
30 May 2026
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Based on 2026 opening day figures, eight teams would have to cut payroll to get under the cap.—
Ronald Blum,
Fortune,
29 May 2026
Verb
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And even many doctors didn't know how to support her.—
Luke Chinman,
PEOPLE,
29 May 2026
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Staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and seeking medical advice for severe dryness or other symptoms can support your recovery.—
Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal,
Parents,
28 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Patronize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patronize. Accessed 30 May. 2026.
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