Patron

Noun

Definition: A person who supports, sponsors, or gives financial assistance to an organization, cause, or individual.

Definition: A regular customer or client of a business or establishment.

Synonyms: Supporter, Benefactor, Sponsor, Donor

Antonyms: Critic, Detractor, Opponent

Examples:

The wealthy businessman was a generous patron of the arts.
As a regular patron of the coffee shop, she developed a strong bond with the barista.

Mnemonics:

Think of a "patron" as someone who supports or "patrons" a cause or establishment.
Imagine a patron extending their support by handing out money like a "pat-on" gesture.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English from Old French, from Latin 'patronus', from 'pater' meaning 'father' or 'protector'.

Historical Usage:

The word patron originally referred to a person who protected or sponsored someone or something, often in a familial or hierarchical context. Over time, it came to be associated with financial support and regular customers of businesses.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Patron of the arts"

Explanation:

Someone who supports and promotes artists, musicians, or other creative individuals or endeavors.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

A patron is only a regular customer.

Explanation:

While a patron can be a regular customer, the term also encompasses the idea of providing support or sponsorship.