n. & v.
n. 1 a fixed official allowance of food, clothing, etc., in a time of shortage. 2 (foll. by of) a single portion of provisions, fuel, clothing, etc. 3 (usu. in pl.) a fixed daily allowance of food, esp. in the armed forces (and formerly of forage for animals). 4 (in pl.) provisions.
v.tr. 1 limit (persons or provisions) to a fixed ration. 2 (usu. foll. by out) share out (food etc.) in fixed quantities. given out with the rations Mil. sl. awarded without regard to merit. ration book (or card) a document entitling the holder to a ration.
[ F f. It. razione or Sp. ración f. L ratio -onis reckoning, RATIO ]