the financial support or business provided to a store, hotel, or the like, by customers, clients, or paying guests.
patrons collectively; clientele.
the control of or power to make appointments to government jobs or the power to grant other political favors.
offices, jobs, or other favors so controlled.
the distribution of jobs and favors on a political basis, as to those who have supported one's party or political campaign.
a condescending manner or attitude in granting favors, in dealing with people, etc.; condescension: an air of patronage toward his business subordinates.
the position, encouragement, influence, or support of a patron, as toward an artist, institution, etc.
the right of presentation to an ecclesiastical benefice; advowson.
Origin of patronage
1350–1400; Middle English <Middle French; see patron, -age
Back at Glenaan Station in New Zealand, Allbirds’ place in the market relative to more well known brands takes a back seat to the fact that its patronage allows the shepherd who supplies its wool to make impressive capital improvements to his farm.
Allbirds is stepping up for the planet—by treading lightly on it|sheilamarikar|September 21, 2020|Fortune
Barack Obama has shown America that crony corporatism, patronage politics, and limitless government know no party.
The power of a government official or leader to make appointments and offer favors. Once in office, a politician can use patronage to build a loyal following. Though practiced at all levels of government, patronage is most often associated with the machine politics of big cities. (See spoils system.)