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. [ 1913 Webster ] He is delighted to dispense a share of it to all the company. Sir W. Scott. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To apply, as laws to particular cases; to administer; to execute; to manage; to direct. [ 1913 Webster ] While you dispense the laws, and guide the state. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. To pay for; to atone for. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] His sin was dispensed
With gold, whereof it was compensed. Gower. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. To exempt; to excuse; to absolve; -- with from. [ 1913 Webster ] It was resolved that all members of the House who held commissions, should be dispensed from parliamentary attendance. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ] He appeared to think himself born to be supported by others, and dispensed from all necessity of providing for himself. Johnson. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
