パトロン
Meanings
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.
That painter had an influential patron.
The art museum is supported by many patrons.
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.
The geisha had a wealthy patron supporting her.
She had her living expenses paid by a sugar daddy.
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.
In the novel's translation, the cafe owner is called the patron.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉のパトロンになるto become someone's patron
He became the patron of that young painter.
- 〈人〉にパトロンがつくfor someone to gain a patron/financial backer
That stage production has a famous businessman as its patron.
- パトロンを探すto look for a patron/financial backer
She is looking for a patron for her new venture.