'patronal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'patronalis', where 'patronus' meant 'patron, protector' and the suffix '-alis' meant 'relating to'.

'patronal' changed from Latin 'patronalis' (via Medieval Latin and Old French influences) into Middle English forms and eventually became the modern English word 'patronal'.

Initially, it meant 'of or pertaining to a patron (protector or patron saint)', and over time it has remained largely the same, used for both secular patrons and patron saints.