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.
Synonyms
- Political favoritism
- Clientelism
- Spoils system
- Corruption