patroness

/ˈpeɪtrənɪs/
noun
  1. A woman who gives financial or other support to a person, organization, or cause.
    • The museum's patroness donated a large sum to fund the new exhibit.
    • She became a patroness of the arts, sponsoring young painters and sculptors.
    • The charity's patroness attended the gala to show her support for the children's hospital.
  2. A female customer of a shop, restaurant, or other business.
    • As a loyal patroness of the bookstore, she received a discount on every purchase.
    • The café's regular patroness always ordered the same latte and croissant.
    • The hotel manager greeted each patroness with a warm smile and a welcome drink.
  3. A woman who protects or champions a person, group, or activity.
    • The novelist's patroness encouraged her to keep writing during difficult times.
    • The queen was a patroness of scientific exploration, funding voyages to distant lands.
    • She acted as a patroness to the local theater group, helping them find a rehearsal space.
What does "patroness" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean