# patronize

/ˈpætɹəˌnaɪz/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/patronize
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

to visit a business or shop regularly to support it. It can also mean to treat someone in a way that shows you think they are less important than you are.

For teachers: to frequent a commercial establishment as a regular customer; alternatively, to treat someone with condescending or superior indifference. Often carries a negative nuance when describing social interactions.

## Examples

- I try to patronize local businesses instead of big chains.
- The local bakery thrives because the neighborhood residents choose to patronize it rather than the national supermarket.
- While the wealthy elite often patronize the arts, their condescending attitude toward the working class can sometimes undermine the very cultural institutions they claim to support.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.