1A person who takes another into his or her protection or patronage; a patron, a guardian. Frequently with reference to God or Christ. Now rare.

2A member of a gang of swindlers, whose role is to feign friendship with the victim. historical in later use.

3A person who or thing which takes something or someone up.

4North American (US in later use). A person who takes possession of unoccupied land. Now historical and rare.