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Definition of rationing

rationing

/ˈræʃ.ən.ɪŋ/
ra · tion · ing
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rationing Lexical Profile

rationing Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The controlled distribution of scarce resources, goods, or services, or an artificial restriction of demand, often implemented by a government during a crisis or shortage.

Example

"Severe droughts in the region led the municipal government to implement strict water rationing throughout the summer."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

rationalize
rationalizer
rationally
rationing
ratite
ratlike
ratproof

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'ration', which comes via French from the Latin 'ratio' (meaning 'reckoning, calculation, or proportion'), originally referring to the calculated daily allowance of provisions issued to soldiers.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rationing. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rationing
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