ˌalə̇ˈgāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin alligation-, alligatio tying, band, from alligatus (past participle of alligare to tie to, from ad- + ligare to tie) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at ligature
1. : the action of attaching or the state of being attached
2. : a process or rule for the solution of problems concerning the compounding or mixing of ingredients differing in price or quality either (1) when a definite mixture is required or (2) when the price or quality of the mixture is to be determined — called also respectively (1) alligation alternate, (2) alligation medial