dispense meaning and definition

DISPENSE verb

Definition of dispense (verb)

1. 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: administer, allot, deal, deal out, dish out, distribute, dole out, lot, mete out, parcel out, shell out
2. grant a dispensation; grant an exemption
   • "I was dispensed from this terrible task"
3. give or apply (medications)
   • synonyms: administer