patronage
PAY-truh-nij
/ˈpætrənɪdʒ/
The distribution of government jobs, contracts, or political favors by officials to loyal supporters.
In political contexts, frequently carries a negative implication of nepotism, favoritism, or the spoils system.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'patronus' (defender, protector), derived from 'pater' (father). In ancient Rome, a 'patronus' provided legal protection and financial aid to lower-class 'clientes' in exchange for their votes and public political support.
Word relationships
- favoritism: Favoritism is generic unfair preference, while political patronage specifically involves dispensing official jobs or state contracts.
- nepotism: Nepotism specifically favors family members, whereas patronage rewards political allies and supporters.
- meritocracy: Meritocracy rewards individuals strictly on demonstrated capability and qualifications.
Commonly confused with
- sponsorship: Sponsorship is public funding support for arts or events, while political patronage usually implies corrupt or biased political appointments.
Word family
- patron (noun): A powerful supporter who bestows favors or financial aid.
- patronize (verb): To act as a patron toward someone, or to treat someone condescendingly.
Collocations
- political patronage
- patronage system
- dispense patronage
- patronage network
Idioms & expressions
- spoils system
- jobs for the boys
Example sentences
- "The appointment was criticized as a clear case of political patronage rather than a merit-based selection." 19th-century political reform history
- "The passage of civil service reform laws reduced the scope of patronage in federal employment." Civil service reform essay
Memory hook
PATRON = PATER (Father): Treating political supporters like favored family members by handing out gifts. Favors for loyalty.
When not to use
Do not use to describe fair, open competitive merit-based hiring processes.
Fun facts
- The assassination of US President James A. Garfield in 1881 by a disappointed job-seeker directly caused the end of the federal spoils system and created the modern US Civil Service.
Related words
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