Dictionary entry

Dispense (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Dis‐pense″, v. i. 1. To compensate; to make up; to make amends.

One loving hour

For many years of sorrow can dispense. Spenser.

2. To give dispensation.

He can also dispense in all matters of ecclesiastical law. Addis & Arnold (Cath. Dict.)

To dispense with. (a) To permit the neglect or omission of, as a form, a ceremony, an oath; to suspend the operation of, as a law; to give up, release, or do without, as services, attention, etc.; to forego; to part with. (b) To allow by dispensation; to excuse; to exempt; to grant dispensation to or for. “Conniving and dispensing with open and common adultery.” Milton. (c) To break or go back from, as one's word. Richardson.