C1noun2K

Patron

UK /["/ˈpeɪtrən/"]/US /["/ˈpeɪtrən/"]/

Definition

a person who gives money and support to artists and writers

In simple words: A person who supports or gives money to a person, organization, or activity.

Examples

  • Frederick the Great was the patron of many artists.
  • He was a great patron of the arts and helped to establish the Baltimore Museum.
  • the official patron of the college
  • The Princess of Wales is patron of the Royal Photographic Society.
  • The car park is for the use of patrons only.

Usage notes

Use 'patron' when referring to someone who regularly visits a place or supports an artist. Avoid in casual settings where simpler words like 'fan' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

patron + object

Memory hint

Think 'patron' like 'pay-true-on' for someone who pays to support a cause.

Collocations

  • influential
  • powerful
  • generous
  • a patron of the arts
  • influential
  • powerful
  • generous
  • a patron of the arts

Synonyms

  • supporter
  • sponsor
  • benefactor
  • donor

Antonyms

  • critic
  • enemy

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'pattern' in pronunciation.
  • Using 'patron' in too casual a context.
  • Misunderstanding as a term only for restaurant customers.