Ration
/ˈræʃ.ən/noun
A fixed allowance of provisions or food, especially for soldiers or sailors.
Did you know?The word 'ration' comes from Latin roots meaning 'to reason', implying that in dire times, one's survival depended on careful thought and planning—almost like a form of magical foresight.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
ratio
“Reason or calculation, indicating a methodical approach to distribution.”
Old French
Old French
ration
“A portion or share, derived from the need to allocate resources.”
Middle English
Middle English
racioun
“A fixed portion of food, particularly in military contexts.”
Modern English
English
ration
“A defined amount of food or provisions, often used in times of scarcity.”