Etymology Map
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Patron

3 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means a supporter of an artist or cause

Where does the word "patron" come from? It comes from Latin patronus, passing through Old French before entering English (1300s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
patronus
Latin · ancient
"protector"
from 'pater', father
2
Stage 2 of 3
patron
Old French · medieval
"protector"
a protector of a church or artist
3
Stage 3 of 3
patron
English · 1300s
"protector"
'patron saint' dates from the 1700s
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Read the full story

Patron’s story begins in Latin: patronus meant “protector.” From 'pater', father. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as patron. A protector of a church or artist. It reached English by 1300s as patron. 'patron saint' dates from the 1700s. Today, patron means a supporter of an artist or cause.