Patronage

n. [Fr. patronage, It. padronaggio, padronatico, padronato, Sp. patronazgo, patronato, Pr. patronat, Lat. patronatus.]

1. Special countenance or support; favor or aid afforded to second the views of a person or to promote a design.
2. Guardianship, as of a saint.
3. (Canon Law.) The right of presentation to a church or ecclesiastical benefice; advowson.