Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

political patronage

Noun

pəˈlɪtɪkəl ˈpeɪtrənɪdʒ

Definition

The support, encouragement, privilege, or financial aid that an organization or individual bestows to another in the political sphere.

Examples

Political patronage can shape the hiring practices of a government.
Many believe that political patronage leads to corruption.
He was rewarded with a lucrative government contract as a result of political patronage.

Meaning

Political patronage refers to the practice of giving government jobs and other benefits to supporters and loyalists as a reward for their support, often seen as a way to maintain political alliances and control.