Maecenas

noun

Mae·​ce·​nas mi-ˈsē-nəs 

: a generous patron especially of literature or art

Did you know?

Although the ancient Roman Gaius Maecenas was a well-known diplomat and counselor to Emperor Augustus, it was his munificent patronage of literature that immortalized his name as a word for "a generous patron." A writer himself, Maecenas knew of the power of poetry and viewed it as a way to glorify Augustus's regime. Among the poets he patronized were the celebrated Virgil and Horace - both of whom he befriended. Maecenas has also been credited with encouraging both writers to focus more on topics of public interest, such as affairs of state.

Synonyms

• angel
• benefactor
• donator
• donor
• fairy godmother
• patron
• sugar daddy

Examples of Maecenas in a Sentence

the opera company no longer has an array of moneyed Maecenases to which it can turn for financial support

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from Gaius Maecenas †8 b.c. Roman statesman & patron of literature

First Known Use

1542, in the meaning defined above

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Biographical Definition

Maecenas

biographical name

Mae·​ce·​nas mi-ˈsē-nəs 

Gaius circa 70–8 b.c. Roman statesman and patron of literature