Patronage

Webster's Dictionary of the English Language

·noun Business custom.

II. Patronage ·noun Guardianship, as of a saint; tutelary care.

III. Patronage ·noun The right of presentation to church or ecclesiastical benefice; advowson.

IV. Patronage ·vt To act as a patron of; to Maintain; to Defend.

V. Patronage ·noun The right of nomination to political office; also, the offices, contracts, honors, ·etc., which a public officer may bestow by favor.

VI. Patronage ·noun Special countenance or support; favor, encouragement, or aid, afforded to a person or a work; as, the patronage of letters; patronage given to an Author.