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proportion
proportion definition
pro·por·tion (prə pôr′s̸hən, prō-)
noun
- the comparative relation between parts, things, or elements with respect to size, amount, degree, etc.; ratio
- a part, share, or portion, esp. in its relation to the whole; quota
- relationship between parts or things; esp., harmonious, proper, or desirable relationship; balance or symmetry
- size, degree, or extent relative to a standard
- dimensions a building of large proportions
- Math.
- an equality between ratios; relationship between four quantities in which the quotient of the first divided by the second is equal to that of the third divided by the fourth (Ex.: 6 is to 2 as 9 is to 3)also called geometrical proportion
- rule of three
- an equality between ratios; relationship between four quantities in which the quotient of the first divided by the second is equal to that of the third divided by the fourth (Ex.: 6 is to 2 as 9 is to 3)
Etymology: ME proporcioun < MFr proporcion < L proportio < pro, for + portio, part: see portion
transitive verb
- to cause to be in proper relation, harmony, or balance to proportion the punishment to the crime
- to arrange the parts of (a whole) so as to be harmonious or properly balanced
Related Forms:
- proportionment pro·por′·tion·ment noun
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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