dispenser

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a device or container that releases a substance or item in measured amounts

   A soap dispenser was mounted beside the sink.

2. 2
   noun

   a person or authority that distributes, grants, or administers something

   The monarch was portrayed as the dispenser of justice and mercy.

From Anglo-Norman dispensour and Old French despenseor, ultimately Latin dispensator, 'manager or distributor.' Its form is now understood as dispense + -er.

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