proportion

proportion [prə pôr′shən, prōpôr′shən]

n.

[ME proporcioun < MFr proporcion < L proportio < pro, FOR¹ + portio, part: see PORTION]

1. the comparative relation between parts, things, or elements with respect to size, amount, degree, etc.; ratio

2. a part, share, or portion, esp. in its relation to the whole; quota

3. relationship between parts or things; esp., harmonious, proper, or desirable relationship; balance or symmetry

4. size, degree, or extent relative to a standard

5. [pl.] dimensions [a building of large proportions]

6. Math.

a) 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

b) RULE OF THREE

vt.

1. to cause to be in proper relation, harmony, or balance [to proportion the punishment to the crime]

2. to arrange the parts of (a whole) so as to be harmonious or properly balanced

SYN.- SYMMETRY

proportionment

n.