ETYM French, from Latin patronus, from pater a father. Related to Paternal, Patroon, Padrone, Pattern.
1. Someone who supports or champions something; SYN. sponsor, supporter.
2. A regular customer; SYN. attender, frequenter.
3. (Italian) The proprietor of an inn; SYN. patronne.

ETYM Latin, from spondere, sponsum, to engage one's self. Related to Spose.
1. One who offers sponsorship to another.
2. One who, at the baptism of an infant, guarantees its religious education; a godfather or godmother.