Patronize

Pronunciation: /ˈpeɪtrəˌnaɪz/

Definitions of patronize

verb to treat in a condescending manner, to be a regular customer of a business

Example Sentences

A1 She didn't want to patronize the new employee by constantly checking on their work.

A2 The manager tried not to patronize the team members during the project.

B1 It's important not to patronize customers when they ask questions about products.

B2 The professor made sure not to patronize the students during the challenging assignment.

C1 The politician was accused of patronizing voters with empty promises.

C2 The wealthy businessman was known for patronizing the arts and supporting local artists.

Examples of patronize in a Sentence

formal It is important for businesses to not patronize their customers and instead treat them with respect.

informal Don't patronize me, I know what I'm doing.

slang Stop patronizing me, I'm not a child.

figurative She felt like the teacher was patronizing her when he explained basic math concepts.

Grammatical Forms of patronize

• past tense: patronized
• plural: patronizes
• comparative: more patronizing
• superlative: most patronizing
• present tense: patronize
• future tense: will patronize
• perfect tense: have patronized
• continuous tense: is patronizing
• singular: patronize
• positive degree: patronizing
• infinitive: to patronize
• gerund: patronizing
• participle: patronized

Origin and Evolution of patronize

First Known Use: 1589 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'patronize' originated from the Latin word 'patronus' meaning 'protector or supporter'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in a positive sense to mean support or protect, the word 'patronize' has evolved to also include a negative connotation of treating someone as if they are inferior or condescending towards them.