Word parts patron + -ess Pronunciation (UK) IPA (key): /ˈpeɪtrənɪs/ or /ˌpeɪtrəˈnɛs/ Noun Singular patroness Plural patronesses (countable) A patroness is a woman that supports or provides money for an activity or person, also known as a female patron. Wikiwand - on Seamless Wikipedia browsing. On steroids.Remove ads