rationing

(noun) the act of rationing. Example: "During the war the government imposed rationing of food and gasoline."

(verb) restrict the consumption of a relatively scarce commodity, as during war. Synonyms: ration. Example: "Bread was rationed during the siege of the city."

(verb) distribute in rations, as in the army. Synonyms: ration, ration out. Example: "Cigarettes are rationed."