dispenser

noun

dis·​pens·​er di-ˈspen(t)-sər How to pronounce dispenser (audio)
: one that dispenses: such as
a
: a container that extrudes, sprays, or feeds out in convenient units
a soap dispenser
b
: a usually mechanical device for vending merchandise

Examples of dispenser in a Sentence

hospitals and other health-care dispensers
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.
There was also an observed buildup around the nozzles on the backsplash portion of the juice dispenser. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 25 Aug. 2026 Our healthcare policies treat pharmacists primarily as dispensers of medication rather than as clinicians capable of improving patient outcomes. — Joel Zive, New York Daily News, 25 Aug. 2026 Beyond Freestyle This July, Coca-Cola’s Freestyle drink dispenser celebrated its 17th anniversary. — Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 22 Aug. 2026 The primary dispensers supply an electrical current of up to 800 amperes, while the boost dispensers provide up to 600 amperes. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dispenser

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "person in charge of distribution or administration, steward," borrowed from Anglo-French despenser, from despenser "to dispense, administer" + -er -er entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dispenser was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing dispenser

Rhymes for dispenser

See All Rhymes for dispenser

Browse Nearby Words

dispense
dispenser
dispense with
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dispenser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dispenser. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dispenser

noun
dis·​pens·​er dis-ˈpen(t)-sər How to pronounce dispenser (audio)
: one that dispenses
especially : a container that gives out something a little at a time
a soap dispenser
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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