Pur*vey"ance (?), n. [Cf. F. pourvoyance.] 1. The act or process of providing or procuring; providence; foresight; preparation; management. Chaucer.

The ill purveyance of his page.

2. That which is provided; provisions; food.

3. (Eng. Law) A providing necessaries for the sovereign by buying them at an appraised value in preference to all others, and oven without the owner's consent. This was formerly a royal prerogative, but has long been abolished. Wharton.