See Also: dispense(medicine)
dispense(1)(dictionary)
dispense(dictionary)

dispense (oh)



[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Latin; Origin: dispensare 'to share out', from pendere 'to weigh']
to give something to people, especially in fixed amounts
-synonym give out give out dispense sth to sb
::Villagers dispensed tea to people involved in the accident.
::a machine for dispensing cash
to officially provide something for people
dispense justice
(=decide whether or not someone is guilty of a crime and what punishment they should receive)
to officially prepare and give medicines to people
dispense with [dispense with sth] phr v
to not use or do something that people usually use or do, because it is not necessary
::Ann suggested that they dispense with speeches altogether at the wedding.
dispense with sb's services
(=no longer employ someone)
::Let's dispense with the formalities (=speak openly and directly) , shall we?