Synonyms of client
1
: one that is under the protection of another : dependent
… a first-rate power, able to defend her political clients in central and eastern Europe.W. W. Kulski
2
a
: a person who engages the professional advice or services of another
a lawyer's clients
a personal trainer … enjoyed the challenges of helping clients buff up their bodies.S. K. Parks
b
: customer
hotel clients
a restaurant's clients
c
: a person served by or utilizing the services of a social agency
a welfare client
d
: a computer in a network that uses the services (such as access to files or shared peripherals) provided by a server
also : software that allows a computer to function as a client in a network
3

Examples of client in a Sentence

The accountant is meeting with another client right now, but she'll be able to see you later this afternoon. a law firm soliciting new clients through television advertising
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sanft also turned to his client’s memoir during his closing argument. Jonathan Landrum Jr, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2026 Whether this involves a partner, client, friend, or agreement, your preference matters too. Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 31 Aug. 2026 Then in 2016, Duncan’s attorneys contacted the American Bar Association, which put him in touch with an Atlanta firm that took Duncan on as a client pro bono. Richard A. Webster, ProPublica, 31 Aug. 2026 Kevin has made a number of personal injury claims against Acme over the years on behalf of his cartoon clients, usually settling out of court for small sums. ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for client

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French client, from Latin client-, cliens; perhaps akin to Latin clinare to lean — more at lean

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of client was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Client.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/client. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: a person who uses the professional advice or services of another
2

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