Definition of: dispense

(dis·pens′) v. ·pensed, ·pens·ing v.t.
1. To give or deal out in portions; distribute.
2. To compound and give out (medicines).
3. To administer, as laws.
4. To relieve or excuse; absolve.
—v.i.
5. To grant exemption or dispensation. See synonyms under APPORTION.
—to dispense with To waive the observance of; relinquish; forgo. [OF despenser <L dispensare, freq. of dispendere <dis- away + pendere weigh]