from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Dispense \Dis*pense"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Dispensed}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Dispensing}.] [F. dispenser, L. dispensare, intens.
of dispendere. See {Dispend}.]
1. To deal out in portions; to distribute; to give; as, the
steward dispenses provisions according directions; Nature
dispenses her bounties; to dispense medicines.
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He is delighted to dispense a share of it to all the
company. --Sir W.
Scott.
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2. To apply, as laws to particular cases; to administer; to
execute; to manage; to direct.
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While you dispense the laws, and guide the state.
--Dryden.
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3. To pay for; to atone for. [Obs.]
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His sin was dispensed
With gold, whereof it was compensed. --Gower.
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4. To exempt; to excuse; to absolve; -- with from.
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It was resolved that all members of the House who
held commissions, should be dispensed from
parliamentary attendance. --Macaulay.
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He appeared to think himself born to be supported by
others, and dispensed from all necessity of
providing for himself. --Johnson.
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