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Definition of patronizing

patronizing

/ˈpeɪ.trə.naɪ.zɪŋ/
(UK: patronising)
pa · tron · iz · ing
Adverb:patronizingly
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patronizing Lexical Profile

patronizing Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Apparently kind or helpful, but betraying a feeling of superiority; condescending.

Example

"She disliked the professor's patronizing tone whenever students asked basic questions."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for patronizing
Antonyms
View all antonyms for patronizing

Word Nuance & Usage

While the verb 'patronize' can mean either to treat someone condescendingly or to be a regular customer of a business, the adjective 'patronizing' is used almost exclusively in the negative sense of showing a superior attitude.

• Rhymes for patronizing

• Nearby Words

patroness
patronize
patronizer
patronizing
patronizingly
patronizingness
patronly

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'patronize', which comes via Old French from Medieval Latin 'patronus' (protector or defender), originally rooted in Latin 'pater' (father).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Patronizing. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/patronizing
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