patron

Someone who buys things or uses services at a particular shop, restaurant, or other business.

• The bar was full of patrons.
• This parking area is reserved for patrons.
• Several regular patrons complained about the new menu.

How to use it: patron of something (He is a regular patron of this cafe.)

Similar words: customer, client

Common phrases: regular patron, a paying patron, restaurant patron

Someone who supports a person, organisation, or activity, often by giving money.

• The museum needs more patrons.
• A generous patron paid for the exhibition.
• He is a well-known patron of the arts.

How to use it: patron of something (She became a patron of the local theatre.)

Similar words: supporter, sponsor, benefactor

Common phrases: patron of something, patron of the arts, a generous patron

A saint believed to protect a particular place, group, or activity.

• The church honours its patron each year.
• Saint Cecilia is the patron of musicians.
• They prayed to their city's patron for protection.

How to use it: patron of someone/something (Saint Nicholas is a patron of sailors.)

Similar words: patron saint, protector, intercessor

Common phrases: patron saint, patron of sailors, heavenly patron

A rich or powerful person who gives an artist or scholar money and protection.

• The painter found a wealthy patron.
• Her patron commissioned a portrait of his family.
• Many scholars relied on patrons to support their work.

How to use it: patron of someone (The duke was a patron of several young painters.)

Similar words: benefactor, sponsor, mecenas

Common phrases: wealthy patron, royal patron, an artist's patron

A property owner who pays a builder to carry out construction work.

• The patron hired a local builder.
• The contractor discussed costs with the patron.
• The patrons approved the plans for their new house.

Similar words: client, commissioner

Common phrases: building patron, patron and contractor, the project's patron