- present participle of patronize.
patronizing
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I think there’s nothing cooler than when you meet an artist who had a storied career and they seem completely down to earth and easy to talk to, and not condescending or patronizing.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 30, 2026
Calling it “wholesome” isn’t right; that’s too patronizing.
From Salon ● Apr. 12, 2026
You can empathize with your friend without demonizing your own position or patronizing her by saying everything will be OK.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 2, 2026
While the guidance has the right intention, it can feel patronizing and constraining, some employees and observers say.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 20, 2025
“When you get a visit, you automatically get a shower,” he said in a patronizing tone.
From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover
Vocabulary lists containing patronizing
The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone
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The Hunger Games
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