1
as in sponsorship
the financial support and general guidance for an undertaking
a symphony orchestra that had long relied upon the patronage of the city's moneyed old guard
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2
as in business
transactions or economic support provided by customers
he refuses to give his patronage to any corporation that is not socially conscious
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of patronage
This is part of the board’s structure as a patronage organ of the borough party machines.
—
New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 24 June 2025
The frequent demands on a compromised and beholden company to perform the patronage function local government used to provide before courts put the kibosh on the practice.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 June 2025
Under Rasulid patronage, the castle expanded dramatically, becoming not just a military installation but a center of governance and culture.
—Smithsonian Magazine, 12 June 2025
The hospital’s well-being garden, which opened in July 2024, was created in partnership with the RHS, Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity and NHS Charities Together — the latter of which is a joint patronage of Kate and Prince William.
—Simon Perry, People.com, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for patronage
New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 24 June 2025
The frequent demands on a compromised and beholden company to perform the patronage function local government used to provide before courts put the kibosh on the practice.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 June 2025
Under Rasulid patronage, the castle expanded dramatically, becoming not just a military installation but a center of governance and culture.
—Smithsonian Magazine, 12 June 2025
The hospital’s well-being garden, which opened in July 2024, was created in partnership with the RHS, Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity and NHS Charities Together — the latter of which is a joint patronage of Kate and Prince William.
—Simon Perry, People.com, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for patronage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for patronage
Noun
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With a bout against WBA champion Fernando Daniel Martinez already confirmed for November, Rodriguez must first take care of business against a dangerous and determined Cafu.—
Kilty Cleary,
MSNBC Newsweek,
19 July 2025
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Earlier that year, McArthur was also convicted of fraud and racketeering charges related to her family’s jukebox and gaming machine business and was sentenced to seven years in state prison, per the Pensacola News Journal.—
Emily Blackwood,
People.com,
19 July 2025
Noun
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Three examples of Louisville bathroom renovations showcase various styles and upgrades. Design choices include bold wallpapers, mixed metals, and custom tile work.—
Lennie Omalza,
The Courier-Journal,
25 July 2025
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At the Mega Lo Mart, fans can get custom baseball hat pressings and refresh with a real Alamo beer at the hydration station underneath the Arlen water tower.—
Carlos Rico,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
24 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Patronage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patronage. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.
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