administer meaning and definition

ADMINISTER verb

Definition of administer (verb)

1. work in an administrative capacity; supervise or be in charge of
   • "administer a program"; "she administers the funds"
   • synonyms: administrate
2. perform (a church sacrament) ritually
   • "administer the last unction"
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"
   • synonyms: allot, deal, deal out, dish out, dispense, distribute, dole out, lot, mete out, parcel out, shell out
4. give or apply (medications)
   • synonyms: dispense
5. direct the taking of
   • "administer an exam"; "administer an oath"