dispense

//dɪˈspɛns//
B2Frequency Level 11Neutral
Visual representation of dispense

Verb

dispenseInfinitive
dispensePresent tense
dispensedPast tense
dispensedPast participle
dispensingPresent participle
dispensesThird-person singular
1

To distribute or provide a service or information to a number of people.

The tourist office dispenses information about local attractions.

2

To prepare and give out medicine according to a prescription.

The pharmacist dispensed the medication as prescribed by the doctor.

3

(dispense with) To manage without something; to get rid of.

We can dispense with the formalities and get straight to business.

4

(dispense with) To give special exemption from a law or rule.

The committee decided to dispense with the usual formalities.