Dispensary: meaning, definitions and examples

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dispensary

 

[ dɪsˈpɛn.sə.ri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical facility

A dispensary is a healthcare facility that provides medical services, typically focused on the distribution of medicines and pharmaceutical care. They often serve as a point of access for patients needing prescriptions or medications. Dispensaries can also operate within larger medical institutions, functioning to support the broader healthcare needs of patients. In addition to pharmacy services, dispensaries may provide consultations and health education to patients.

Synonyms

clinic, health center, pharmacy

Examples of usage

  • I visited the dispensary to pick up my medication.
  • The dispensary offers free health check-ups every month.
  • Patients can consult with pharmacists at the dispensary.
  • Many dispensaries now provide telehealth services.
Context #2 | Noun

cannabis shop

In recent times, a dispensary often refers to a retail store that sells cannabis and related products to consumers. These dispensaries operate under specific legal regulations and provide a variety of marijuana strains, edibles, and concentrates. Some dispensaries have knowledgeable staff to assist customers in finding the right products for their needs, including health and recreational use.

Synonyms

cannabis shop, marijuana dispensary, weed store

Examples of usage

  • The dispensary opened a new location downtown.
  • I found some interesting edibles at the cannabis dispensary.
  • The staff at the dispensary helped me choose the right strain.
  • Many dispensaries also sell accessories for cannabis consumption.

Translations

Translations of the word "dispensary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dispensário

🇮🇳 डिस्पेंसरी

🇩🇪 Apotheke

🇮🇩 apotek

🇺🇦 диспансер

🇵🇱 apteka

🇯🇵 薬局

🇫🇷 pharmacie

🇪🇸 farmacia

🇹🇷 eczane

🇰🇷 약국

🇸🇦 صيدلية

🇨🇿 lékárna

🇸🇰 lekáreň

🇨🇳 药房

🇸🇮 lekarna

🇮🇸 apótek

🇰🇿 дәріхана

🇬🇪 აფთიაქი

🇦🇿 apteka

🇲🇽 farmacia

Etymology

The term 'dispensary' originates from the Latin word 'dispensarium,' which means 'a place where things are distributed or dispensed.' Historically, dispensaries were established as institutions for the provision of medical care, especially where patients could obtain medicines. Over time, the concept evolved, particularly with the legalization and regulation of cannabis in various regions. Today, dispensaries serve multiple roles, from traditional healthcare facilities distributing pharmaceutical drugs to modern retail stores selling cannabis products. The adaptation of the term reflects the changes in societal health needs and regulations surrounding the distribution of both conventional and alternative medicines.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,860, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.