Translate patronage | into French | into German | into Italian Definition of patronage
noun
1the support given by a patron:the arts could no longer depend on private patronage
2the power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges:recruits are selected on merit, not through political patronage
3a patronizing or condescending manner:a twang of self-satisfaction—even patronage—about him
4the regular business given to a store, restaurant, or public service by a person or group:the direct train link was ending because of poor patronage
5(in ancient Rome) the rights and duties or the position of a patron.