Provision (?), n. [L. provisio: cf. F. provision. See Provide.] 1. The act of providing, or making previous preparation. Shak.
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2. That which is provided or prepared; that which is brought together or arranged in advance; measures taken beforehand; preparation.
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Making provision for the relief of strangers. Bacon.
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3. Especially, a stock of food; any kind of eatables collected or stored; -- often in the plural.
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And of provisions laid in large,
For man and beast. Milton.
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4. That which is stipulated in advance; a condition; a previous agreement; a proviso; as, the provisions of a contract; the statute has many provisions.
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5. (R. C. Ch.) A canonical term for regular induction into a benefice, comprehending nomination, collation, and installation.
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6. (Eng. Hist.) A nomination by the pope to a benefice before it became vacant, depriving the patron of his right of presentation. Blackstone.
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