Patronize Definition

pātrə-nīz, pătrə-

patronized, patronizes, patronizing

verb

patronized, patronizes, patronizing

To act as a patron toward; sponsor; support.

Webster's New World

To be kind or helpful to, but in a haughty or snobbish way, as if dealing with an inferior.

Webster's New World

To be a regular customer of (a store, merchant, etc.)

Webster's New World

To treat in a condescending manner, often in showing interest or kindness that is insincere.

Felt she was being patronized by her supervisor.

American Heritage

To make oneself a customer of a business, especially a regular customer.

Wiktionary

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Origin of Patronize

Old English patron (reborrowed from Latin patronus, derived from Latin pater (“father")) +"Ž -ize (“(verb ending)").

From Wiktionary

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