[pro.vide] vb pro.vid.ed ; pro.vid.ing [ME, fr. L providere, lit., to see ahead, fr. pro- forward + videre to see--more at pro-, wit] vi (15c) 1: to take precautionary measures "~ for the common defense --U.S. Constitution"
2: to make a proviso or stipulation "the constitution ... ~s for an elected two-chamber legislature --Current Biog."
3: to make preparation to meet a need "~ for entertainment"; esp: to supply something for sustenance or support "~s for the poor" ~ vt 1 archaic: to prepare or get ready in advance
2. a: to supply or make available (something wanted or needed) "provided new uniforms for the band"; also: afford "curtains ~ privacy" b: to make something available to "~ the children with free balloons"
3: to have as a condition: stipulate "the contract ~s that certain deadlines will be met"