Langimage
English

rations

|ra/tions|

B2

/ˈræʃənz/

(ration)

fixed allowance

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
rationrationsrationsrationedrationedrationing
Etymology
Etymology Information

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

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 calculation,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a fixed allowance of provisions.'

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, families were given weekly rations of sugar and flour.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to distribute a fixed amount of a commodity to each person.

The government decided to ration fuel during the crisis.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/15 04:51