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.

2. A dependent; one under the protection of another.

I do think they are your friends and clients, And fearful to disturb you. --B. Jonson.

3. (Law) One who consults a legal adviser, or submits his cause to his management.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)