patron
/'peitrən/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A person who gives financial or other support to a person, organization, cause, or activity: A patron provides backing, often to artists, charities, or institutions.
- A customer, especially a regular one, of a store, restaurant, or other business: A patron is someone who frequents and uses the services of an establishment.
- The owner or manager of an establishment, such as an inn or hotel: In historical or formal contexts, a patron can refer to the proprietor.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Supporter):
- She was a generous patron of the local art museum.
- The library was built with funds from a wealthy patron.
- Noun (Customer):
- The café's loyal patrons enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
- Patrons are asked to wait to be seated.
- Noun (Proprietor - historical/formal):
- The patron of the inn greeted the travelers at the door.
Advanced Usage
- "Patron of the arts": A person who supports artists, musicians, or cultural institutions, often financially.
- The Medici family were famous patrons of the arts during the Renaissance.
- "Patron saint": A saint regarded as the special guardian or protector of a person, group, trade, or country.
- Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland.
Variants and Related Words
- Patronage (n): The support, especially financial, given by a patron; also, the power to grant favors or appointments.
- The gallery depends on the patronage of local businesses.
- Patronize (v):
- To be a regular customer of a business.
- We patronize the family-owned grocery store.
- To treat someone with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority (often negative).
- Don't patronize me; I understand the problem perfectly.
- Patronizing (adj): Having a superior manner, condescending.
- He gave a patronizing smile.
Synonyms
- Benefactor: A person who gives money or other help to a person or cause.
- Sponsor: A person or organization that provides funds for a project or activity.
- Client: A person using the services of a professional or organization.
- Regular: A regular customer.
Related Phrases
- "To seek patronage": To look for financial or influential support.
- The young composer went to the city to seek patronage.
- "Under the patronage of": Supported or sponsored by.
- The concert was held under the patronage of the cultural minister.
Noun
- someone who supports or champions something
- the proprietor of an inn
- a regular customer