Pronunciation: [ɹˈaʃən] (IPA) 
The word "ration" is spelled as /ˈræʃən/. The pronunciation of this word has a short "a" sound, followed by an "sh" sound, and ends with a long "o" sound. The correct spelling of "ration" is important in the context of food or supplies distributed in controlled amounts. It is a noun that means a fixed allowance of food, especially for soldiers or during a shortage. This word also has different forms like rations, rationing, rationed, etc.
Ration refers to the assigned amount or portion of food, provisions, resources, or supplies that is allowed or distributed to individuals or groups during times of scarcity, emergency, or limited availability. It can also be the act of distributing such limited resources in a controlled and regulated manner among people, typically done by authorities or organizations.
In the context of food, rationing is a practice adopted by governments or institutions in order to ensure that everyone receives a fair and equal share of essential sustenance during periods of shortage or conflict. It involves the limitation of quantities provided to individuals on a regular basis, often based on specific criteria such as age, occupation, or family size.
Rations are typically distributed in measured or standardized portions to meet basic nutritional requirements and sustain life. These rations may include staple food items like grains, legumes, dairy products, meat, and vegetables, as well as other necessary commodities such as fuel, clothing, or medical supplies.
Rationing can serve multiple purposes, including managing scarcity, maintaining social order, or redirecting resources to support specific priorities, such as the military or wartime efforts. Rations may be obtained through designated distribution centers, coupons, or electronic cards to ensure fairness and prevent hoarding or fraud.
Overall, rationing is a method of managing and distributing limited resources to ensure that everyone receives a sufficient and equitable share, particularly in challenging or emergency situations.
An allowance of food and drink sufficient for a definite period.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The fixed quantity of provisions allowed to a soldier or sailor for his daily subsistence; a fixed allowance dealt out.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ration" originated from the Latin word "ratio", which means "reckoning" or "calculation". It entered the English language in the early 18th century through French, as "ration" or "rationnement". Its original meaning referred to a calculated amount or portion of something, often specifically in the context of food or provisions. Over time, the term developed into its current usage, referring to the distribution of limited resources or supplies, particularly during times of scarcity or conflict.
