— proportioner , n. — proportionless , adj.
/preuh pawr"sheuhn, -pohr"-/ , n.
1. comparative relation between things or magnitudes as to size, quantity, number, etc.; ratio.
2. proper relation between things or parts: to have tastes way out of proportion to one's financial means.
3. relative size or extent.
4. proportions , dimensions or size: a rock of gigantic proportions.
5. a portion or part in its relation to the whole: A large proportion of the debt remains.
6. symmetry, harmony, or balance: an architect with a sense of proportion.
7. the significance of a thing or event that an objective view reveals: You must try to see these mishaps in proportion.
8. Math. a relation of four quantities such that the first divided by the second is equal to the third divided by the fourth; the equality of ratios. Cf. rule of three .
9. Archaic. analogy; comparison.
v.t.
10. to adjust in proper proportion or relation, as to size, quantity, etc.
11. to balance or harmonize the proportions of.
[ 1350-1400; ME proporcio ( u ) n proportion- (s. of proportio ) symmetry, analogy. See PRO- 1 , PORTION ]
Syn. 1. comparison. 5. share. 6. distribution, arrangement. See symmetry. 10. regulate, arrange, balance, harmonize.