noun
1.
Synonyms: backing , aegis, auspices, sponsorship
Related Word: benefaction, guardianship, protection; subsidy
2.
commercial transactions of customers and patrons
developed a large patronage by offering fair prices and courteous service
Synonyms: business, custom, trade, traffic
Related Word: clientage, clientele
3.
the power to make appointments to government jobs on a basis other than merit alone
ousted his enemies from office and used patronage to support his policies
Synonyms: pork-barreling
Related Word: cronyism