al•low (əlou´) vt.

 1 to let do, happen, etc.; permit; let[we weren't allowed to go]
 2 to let have[she allowed herself no sweets]
 3 to let enter or stay[dogs are not allowed]
 4 to admit (a claim or the like); acknowledge as true or valid
 5 to provide or allot (a certain amount, period of time, etc.) for a purpose[allow an inch for shrinkage]
 6 [Dial.]
 a) to think; give as one's opinion
 b) to intend
—SYN. let¹
—allow for to make allowance, provision, etc. for; keep in mind[allow for the difference in their ages]
—allow of to be subject to; admit of