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Patrons: meaning, definitions and examples

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patrons

 

[ˈpeɪtrənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

customers at a business

Patrons are individuals who regularly visit and support a particular business, such as a restaurant, bar, or art gallery. They are loyal customers who contribute to the success and sustainability of the establishment.

Synonyms

clients, customers, regulars.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
patrons

Best used in formal contexts referring to people who regularly support or visit a place, often related to arts, theater, or restaurants.

  • The theater's patrons generously donated to the renovation project.
  • Patrons of the arts often attend gallery openings.
customers

Commonly used in retail and business to refer to people who buy goods or services. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The store's customers were very happy with the new product range.
  • Our restaurant serves hundreds of customers every day.
clients

Typically used in professional or business settings to describe people who pay for services rather than goods.

  • The lawyer met with her clients to discuss the case.
  • Our marketing firm has several new clients this year.
regulars

Often used in informal contexts to describe people who frequently visit a place, especially bars, cafes, or restaurants.

  • All the regulars know each other at this coffee shop.
  • The bartender greeted the regulars as they walked in.

Examples of usage

  • Many of the restaurant's patrons have been coming here for years.
  • The art gallery relies on its patrons to purchase artwork and attend events.
  • The bar offers discounts to its regular patrons.
Context #2 | Noun

supporters of the arts

Patrons in the context of the arts are individuals or organizations that provide financial support to artists, musicians, writers, and other creative professionals. They play a crucial role in funding projects, exhibitions, and performances.

Synonyms

benefactors, philanthropists, sponsors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
patrons

Use this word when referring to regular customers or supporters of a business, organization, or cause, especially in the context of the arts or public services.

  • The museum relies on its patrons for funding.
  • The patrons of the theater were excited for the new season.
benefactors

This word is suitable when talking about individuals who provide significant support, usually in the form of financial contribution, often to charities or educational institutions.

  • The university received a generous donation from an anonymous benefactor.
  • The hospital wing was built thanks to a benefactor's gift.
sponsors

Ideal for situations where a person or organization provides financial or other support to events, activities, or individuals, often in exchange for advertisement or public recognition.

  • The event was made possible by its many sponsors.
  • The athlete secured a new sponsor for the upcoming season.
philanthropists

This word is used for people who donate time, money, or resources to help others, typically in a broader and often global context. It usually carries a positive connotation.

  • She is known as one of the city's leading philanthropists.
  • Philanthropists contribute to solving global issues like poverty and disease.

Examples of usage

  • The wealthy patron funded the construction of a new theater.
  • The museum relies on its patrons to sponsor exhibits and educational programs.
  • The author dedicated her book to her patrons.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'patron' comes from the Latin word 'patronus', meaning protector or guardian, often used to describe wealthy citizens who supported Roman artists and craftsmen.
  • During the Renaissance, many artists relied on patrons for financial support, which allowed them to create famous works of art that we still admire today.
  • In medieval Europe, patrons were often members of the nobility who funded not only artists but also scholars, contributing significantly to the cultural growth of that time.

Art and Culture

  • Many well-known artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo had important patrons, leading to masterpieces that enriched the cultural heritage.
  • In today's world, film production often depends on patrons known as producers, who provide the necessary funds to make movies.
  • Crowdfunding is a modern way to gather patrons; instead of a single wealthy benefactor, many people contribute small amounts to support creative projects.

Psychology

  • Support from patrons can boost the confidence of creators, making them feel valued and inspired to create more works.
  • Patronage relationships create a sense of community, highlighting how collaboration can enhance creative expression.
  • The act of giving, whether as a patron or supporter, can foster feelings of happiness and satisfaction in both parties involved.

Business

  • Patrons are crucial in the nonprofit sector, where they provide donations that keep organizations running and support various community initiatives.
  • Customer loyalty programs can turn regular customers into patrons for businesses, where their continuous support helps the business thrive.
  • In the digital age, many platforms allow people to become patrons of content creators, enabling fans to support their favorite artists directly.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of gaming, a character often referred to as a patron can grant players abilities or advantages, blending the concept of support with entertainment.
  • The concept of patrons has appeared in various TV shows and movies, showcasing the dynamics between artists and their benefactors in different settings.
  • Social media influencers often acknowledge patrons (like sponsors) who help them with funding in return for promotion, redefining traditional patron relationships.

Translations

Translations of the word "patrons" in other languages:

🇵🇹 patronos

🇮🇳 संरक्षक

🇩🇪 Gönner

🇮🇩 pelindung

🇺🇦 покровителі

🇵🇱 patroni

🇯🇵 後援者

🇫🇷 patrons

🇪🇸 patronos

🇹🇷 hamiler

🇰🇷 후원자

🇸🇦 رعاة

🇨🇿 patroni

🇸🇰 patróni

🇨🇳 赞助人

🇸🇮 pokrovitelji

🇮🇸 verndarar

🇰🇿 қамқоршылар

🇬🇪 პატრონები

🇦🇿 himayədarlar

🇲🇽 patrocinadores

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,720 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.