Ration  —n. 1 official allowance of food, clothing, etc., in a time of shortage. 2 (usu. In pl.) Fixed daily allowance of food, esp. In the armed forces. —v. 1 limit (persons or provisions) to a fixed ration. 2 (usu. Foll. By out) share out (food etc.) In fixed quantities. [latin: related to *ratio]