Langimage
English

ration

|ra/tion|

B2

/ˈræʃən/

fixed allowance

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ration' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'rationem,' where 'ratio' meant 'reckoning, reason.'

Historical Evolution

'rationem' transformed into the French word 'ration,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ration' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'reckoning or reason,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a fixed allowance of provisions or food.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a fixed amount of a commodity officially allowed to each person during a time of shortage, as in wartime.

During the war, each family received a weekly ration of sugar.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to allow each person to have only a fixed amount of (a commodity).

The government had to ration fuel during the crisis.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40