Definition of Cliens

In Rome, cliens (plural clientes) referred to the lesser partner in the Ancient Roman social institution of clientela, obligated through a debt of loyalty to repay received favors that he had received from his patronus. The term cliens may be derived from the Latin word cluere (to "hear" or "obey") or be cognate with κλίνω (to "lean" or "depend"). In early times, patrons and clients were patrician and plebeian, respectively.