n. Function: noun
1
Synonyms: BACKING , aegis, auspices, sponsorship
Related Words: benefaction, guardianship, protection; subsidy
2 commercial transactions of customers and patrons FF1C; developed a large patronage by offering fair prices and courteous service FF1E;
Synonyms: business, custom, trade, traffic
Related Words: clientage, clientele
3 the power to make appointments to government jobs on a basis other than merit alone FF1C; ousted his enemies from office and used patronage to support his policies FF1E;
Synonyms: pork-barreling
Related Words: cronyism