/peuhr vay"euhns/ , n.
1. the act of purveying.
2. something that is purveyed, as provisions.
3. Eng. Law. a prerogative of the crown, abolished in 1660, allowing provisions, supplies, or services for the sovereign or the royal household to be purchased or acquired at an appraised value.
[ 1225-75; PURVEY + -ANCE; r. ME purvea ( u ) nce, purvya ( u ) nce purveance providentia. See PROVIDENCE ]