Patron

pā′trun, n. a protector: one who countenances or encourages: one who has the right to appoint to any office, esp. to a living in the church: a guardian saint:— fem. Pā′trone .— v.t. to treat as a patron.— n. Pā′tronage , the support given by a patron: guardianship of saints: the right of bestowing offices, privileges, or church benefices.— v.t. ( Shak. ) to support.— adj. Pā′tronal .— n. Pātron isā′tion .— v.t. Pā′tronīse , to act as a patron toward: to give countenance or encouragement to: to a ume the air of a patron towards.— n. Pā′tronīser .— adj. Pā′tronīsing .— adv. Pā′tronīsingly .— adj. Pā′tronle . [Fr.,—L. patron us — pater , patris , a father.]