The function of an avoué, advowee, n., advocate, or patron; patronage, protection. Obsolete.

Authoritative direction or control; guardianship, keeping.

gen. The fact of being or having a protector; guardianship, patronage, protection.

spec. Protection, defence. Obsolete.

Protection of dependants or clients (client, n. 1); patronage. Obsolete.

The action of protecting someone or something; the fact or condition of being protected; shelter, defence, or preservation from harm, danger…