dish out

verb

dished out; dishing out; dishes out
Synonyms of dish outnext

transitive verb

: to give or dispense freely
dish out gifts
dish out advice
dish out punishment

Examples of dish out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hafley came up with his point guard comparison months ago after watching film of Sieler repeatedly setting up his teammates for sack or, phrased more appropriately, dishing out assists to his teammates. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026 This James Beard American Classic Award-winning restaurant has been dishing out whole hog barbecue since 1957. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026 This deal marks the highest the Saints have dished out to a receiver since Michael Thomas received a five-year pact worth up to $20 million per season in 2019. — Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026 If Emanuel is the family member dishing out tough love, Khanna is the distant cousin nobody remembers inviting, who forces his way into every photo. — Aaron Kaplowitz, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for dish out

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dish out was in 1641

Rhymes for dish out

See All Rhymes for dish out

Browse Nearby Words

dishouse
dish out
dishpan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dish out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dish%20out. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dish out

verb
: to give out freely
dish out advice

More from Merriam-Webster on dish out

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for dish out

Nglish: Translation of dish out for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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