Definition

1. Verb:
   • To distribute or provide something, especially in portions or as a service: To give out or supply something, often in measured amounts or as part of a system.
   • To prepare and give out medicine: To mix and provide medication, typically done by a pharmacist.
   • To exempt or release someone from an obligation or rule: To grant a formal release from a duty or requirement.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • The vending machine will dispense a can of soda when you insert a coin.
  • The pharmacist will dispense the prescribed medication with clear instructions.
  • The judge decided to dispense the defendant from jury duty due to hardship.

Advanced Usage

• "to dispense with": To make something unnecessary; to forgo or do without.
  • Let's dispense with the formalities and get straight to the point.
  • This new software dispenses with the need for manual data entry.

Variants and Related Words

• Dispenser (n): A person or machine that distributes something.

  • He is a dispenser of wisdom and good advice.
  • Please use the paper towel dispenser in the restroom.

• Dispensation (n): The act of dispensing; a special exemption from a rule or obligation.

  • The dispensation of justice is a core function of the courts.
  • She received a dispensation to wear a different uniform.

Synonyms

• Distribute: To give out items to several people.
• Administer: To manage and be responsible for the provision of something, like law or medicine.
• Allocate: To distribute resources or duties for a particular purpose.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Dispense with: (as covered in Advanced Usage) To eliminate the need for something; to manage without.
  • We can dispense with the old procedures now that the new system is in place.

Related Idioms

• Dispense justice: To administer the law and pass judgments.
  • It is the court's duty to dispense justice fairly and impartially.

Verb

1. give or apply (medications)
2. grant a dispensation; grant an exemption
   • I was dispensed from this terrible task
3. administer or bestow, as in small portions
   • administer critical remarks to everyone present
   • dole out some money
   • shell out pocket money for the children
   • deal a blow to someone
   • the machine dispenses soft drinks