patronize etymology

Etymology

• From Middle English patronisen, with the suffix ise indicating a verb from a noun, derived from Latin patrōnus, meaning "patron."

Meaning

To behave in a condescending or superior manner towards someone, especially someone less experienced or powerful.

Origin

The term "patron" originally referred to a Roman citizen who had freed a slave or client. Patrons were expected to protect and defend their clients, providing them with social and economic support. However, over time, the term "patronage" came to be associated with favoritism and preferential treatment.

In the 17th century, the term "patronize" began to be used in a derogatory sense, implying that the speaker was treating someone with condescension or disdain. By the 19th century, it had become a common way to express disapproval of someone who behaved in a superior or snobbish manner.

Usage

The verb "patronize" is often used in a negative context to describe someone who acts superior or condescends to others. It can also be used to describe someone who is overly attentive or flattering in a way that is insincere or intended to gain favor.

Examples

• The manager patronized the new employee, talking down to him as if he were a child.
• The wealthy woman patronized her less fortunate neighbors, giving them handouts with an air of pity.
• The politician patronized the voters by promising them everything they wanted, knowing that he had no intention of delivering.

patronize relate terms

• patron

  Etymology The word patron is derived from the Late Latin term patronus which in tur

• father

  Etymology The word father comes from the Proto Indo European root ph₂tḗr which a

• pattern

  Etymology The word pattern is derived from the Middle French word patron meaning

• patroon

  Etymology The word patroon comes from the Dutch word patroon which means patron or

• patronizing

  Etymology The word patronizing comes from the Latin word patronus meaning patron

• patronize

  Etymology From Middle English patronisen with the suffix ise indicating a verb from a n

• condescend

  Etymology The word condescend comes from the Latin word condescendere which means t

• boycott

  Etymology The word boycott originates from the name of Charles Cunningham Boycott 18

• boycott

  Etymology The word boycott originates from the name of Charles Cunningham Boycott 18

• clientele

  Etymology French clientèle Latin cliens entis client dependent Meaning A bod

• frequent

  Etymology Latin frequens meaning often occurring Meaning Adjective Occurring

• patronage

  Etymology The word patronage originates from the Latin word patronus meaning protec

• sponsor

  Etymology The word sponsor comes from the Latin word spondere which means to promis

• posh

  Etymology Middle English posch posshe Anglo Norman French poche from Old French po

• shop

  Etymology The word shop originates from the Old English term scopp which means she

• forest

  Etymology The English word forest comes from the Old French word forest which in tu