IPA

Dictionary definition of dispense

To distribute, provide or administer something, often in a formal or regulated way.
"The pharmacist will dispense your prescription medication."

Detailed meaning of dispense

Dispensing can refer to the act of giving out medication, food, drink, or other commodities, as well as to the act of providing information, services or advice. Dispensing can also be used to refer to the act of exempting someone from a rule, requirement, or obligation. Dispensing often involves a degree of responsibility, such as ensuring that the correct amount and type of medication is given to a patient, or that accurate information is provided to a customer. In a broader sense, dispense can also refer to the act of getting rid of something, such as a duty, responsibility or obligation. Overall, the verb dispense involves the act of providing or distributing something in a systematic or controlled manner.

Example sentences of dispense

1. The vending machine will dispense your chosen snack.
2. The ATM can dispense up to 20 bills at once.
3. Please press the button to dispense the soap.
4. The coffee machine will dispense hot beverages on demand.
5. The teacher will dispense worksheets to the students.
6. The cashier will dispense change for your purchase.

History and etymology of dispense

The verb 'dispense' has its roots in the Latin word 'dispensare,' which is derived from 'dis-' (meaning 'apart' or 'away') and 'pensare' (meaning 'to weigh' or 'to measure'). In its original Latin form, 'dispensare' was associated with carefully measuring or weighing out something, often in a meticulous and regulated manner. This notion of precise measurement and distribution carried through to the English language when 'dispense' was adopted. Over time, it came to signify the act of distributing, providing, or administering something, particularly in a formal, organized, or controlled fashion. Thus, the etymology of 'dispense' reflects its historical connection to the careful and measured distribution of goods or services.

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Further usage examples of dispense

1. The water cooler can dispense both hot and cold water.
2. The dispenser will dispense hand sanitizer when activated.
3. The ticket machine will dispense your train ticket.
4. The gas pump will dispense fuel into your vehicle.
5. The bartender will dispense drinks to the customers.
6. The candy machine will dispense sweets with the right amount of coins.
7. The automated checkout system will dispense your receipt.
8. The ice cream machine can dispense multiple flavors.
9. The air freshener will dispense a pleasant scent into the room.
10. The automatic feeder will dispense food for your pets.
11. The water dispenser will dispense chilled water for your convenience.
12. The juice dispenser will dispense freshly squeezed juice.
13. The vending machine will dispense both snacks and beverages.
14. The pharmacy will dispense your prescription medication shortly.
15. The vending machine dispenses snacks and beverages.
16. He's authorized to dispense legal advice to clients.
17. The nurse will dispense flu shots at the clinic today.
18. The ATM can dispense cash in various denominations.
19. The professor will dispense wisdom during the lecture.
20. The charity organization dispenses food to the needy.
21. The bartender can dispense a wide range of cocktails.
22. The coffee machine will dispense your morning brew.
23. The clerk will dispense your tickets at the box office.
24. The judge will dispense justice in the courtroom today.