noun
patron; patroness; financial supporter
A person who gives financial or social backing to an artist, the arts, an institution, or a project. Often implies ongoing support rather than a one-time donation.
その画家には有力なパトロンがいた。
That painter had an influential patron.
美術館は多
The art museum is supported by many patrons.
noun
sugar daddy; man who financially supports a woman
Used for a man who financially provides for a woman, historically including a geisha context. It can sound euphemistic, old-fashioned, or suggestive depending on context.
その芸者には裕福なパトロンがついていた。
The geisha had a wealthy patron supporting her.
彼女はパトロンに生活費を出してもらっていた。
She had her living expenses paid by a sugar daddy.
noun
Less common in modern everyday Japanese; used for a master, proprietor, manager, or boss, especially in translated or foreign-setting contexts rather than the usual financial-supporter sense.
小説の訳文では、カフェの主人がパトロンと呼ばれている。
In the novel's translation, the cafe owner is called the patron.