What term describes the client that is dependent on a patron?

The term that describes a client who is dependent on a patron is "cliens." In ancient Roman society, the relationship between a cliens and a patron was a fundamental aspect of social structure. The cliens would seek protection, support, and assistance from the patron, who, in return, expected loyalty and services from the cliens. This relationship was often formalized and involved mutual obligations; clients relied on their patrons for various forms of support, including legal assistance and economic help.

The other terms do not accurately capture this specific client-patron dynamic. "Libertus" refers to a freedman or former slave, "titulus" signifies a label or inscription, often used in legal or property contexts, while "sportula" refers to a small gift or food basket given by a patron to clients during their meetings. Each of these terms represents different aspects of Roman society but does not denote the dependence of a cliens on a patron as directly as the term "cliens" does.