WordLens

patronize

1 of 1verb
/ˈpeɪtrənaɪz/
Forms:patronizes,patronizing,patronized,patronized
1

to support or sponsor a person, organization, or cause, often by providing financial assistance

transitive
  • The wealthy entrepreneur decided to patronize a local arts initiative by funding exhibitions.
  • The company chose to patronize the community center, contributing to its development.
  • The philanthropist has a history of patronizing educational programs to empower underserved communities.
  • Organizations often patronize emerging artists by showcasing their work in galleries.
  • Individuals may choose to patronize charities that align with their values.
Synonyms:
sponsor
2

to frequently buy meals, goods, etc. from a restaurant, store, etc.

transitive
  • They patronize the local café every morning for coffee.
  • She prefers to patronize small, family-owned stores.
  • Many people patronize the bakery for its fresh bread.
  • We like to patronize the farmers' market on weekends.
  • He patronizes the bookstore downtown for new releases.
Synonyms:
shopbuy atshop atfrequentsponsor
Antonyms:
boycott
3

to speak or behave in a way that implies that one is more knowledgeable, experienced, or intelligent than the other person

transitive
  • I feel she is patronizing me by her constant attempts to explain things to me as if I'm incapable of understanding.
  • She rolled her eyes and made a sarcastic comment, clearly trying to patronize him in front of everyone.
  • The salesperson was patronizing the customer, making them feel inferior and inadequate.
Synonyms:
condescend