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Dispense Definition & Meaning

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"
  2. grant a dispensation; grant an exemption; "I was dispensed from this terrible task"
  3. give or apply (medications)

"Dispense" in song lyrics

See how dispense is used in real songs:

  • "Mark how with my neglect I do dispense:"
    William Shakespeare — Sonnet CXII
  • "And with my trespass never will dispense,"
    William Shakespeare — The Rape of Lucrece
  • "Yet with the fault I thus far can dispense;"
    William Shakespeare — The Rape of Lucrece

Usage tips for "dispense"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "dispense" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for dispense to find words that pair well.

Use "dispense" in a verse

Now that you know what "dispense" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

Generate a verse

Frequently asked questions

What does dispense mean?
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" grant a dispensation; grant an exemption; "I was dispensed from this terrible task" give or apply (medications)
What part of speech is dispense?
Dispense is a verb.
How many definitions does dispense have?
Dispense has 3 definitions across 1 part of speech (verb).

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