Patronage

/ˈpeɪ.trə.nɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The support or approval given by a patron.

The gallery benefited from the patronage of affluent art collectors.

The financial support given to an artist, organization, or institution.

The symphony orchestras rely on patronage from local businesses to fund their performances.

The power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges.

Political patronage often plays a significant role in government job appointments.

The act of being a patron, especially in the context of supporting a cause.

Her patronage of the charity has helped raise thousands of dollars for cancer research.

From the Latin 'patronatus', meaning 'patronage, guardianship'.

patronage system

A system in which political support is offered in exchange for services.

art patronage

Financial support for the arts.

patronage politics

The practice of using government funds or resources to support political allies.

patron

A person who supports artists, charities, or organizations.

sponsor

An individual or organization that provides funds for an activity or event.

Big cheese

He’s the big cheese around here; his patronage means a lot.

Moneybags

With her moneybags coming in, we can expect some serious patronage.