Definition of allotment

"Allotment" originates from the Old French word "allotter," meaning "to divide or assign." This, in turn, comes from the Latin "allocare," meaning "to place, to assign." The word first appeared in English in the 14th century and initially referred to the act of dividing or distributing something, particularly land or resources. Over time, it evolved to denote the portion assigned, like a plot of land for gardening or a specific share of something.