[f. SUPPORTER + -ESS1: see -TRESS.] A female supporter. (Applied to a person, or a thing personified.)
1621. T. Williamson, trans. Goulart’s Wise Vieillard, 163. A gracious and stedfast hope, the good nursse and supportresse of his old age.
1637. Massinger, Guardian, I. ii. You are my gracious patroness and supportress.
1680. Seasonable Mem. Hist. Notes Liberties Presse & Pulpit, 36. The City of London … the very Nurse and Support[r]esse of the Rebellion.
1819. Keats, Lamia, II. 123. A haunting music, sole perhaps and lone Supportress of the faery-roof, made moan.
