From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Client \Cli"ent\, n. [L. cliens, -emtis, for cluens, one who
hears (in relation to his protector), a client, fr. L. cluere
to be named or called; akin to Gr. ? to hear, Skr. [,c]ry,
and E. loud: cf. F. client. See Loud.]
1. (Rom. Antiq.) A citizen who put himself under the
protection of a man of distinction and influence, who was
called his patron.
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2. A dependent; one under the protection of another.
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I do think they are your friends and clients,
And fearful to disturb you. --B. Jonson.
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3. (Law) One who consults a legal adviser, or submits his
cause to his management.
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