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Dispensing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dispensing

[dɪˈspɛnsɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

medicine

Dispensing refers to the action of preparing and giving out prescribed medications or medical supplies to patients. It involves accurately measuring and packaging the medications according to the doctor's orders.

Synonyms

administering, distributing, issuing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dispensing

Appropriate when a professional, usually in a medical or pharmaceutical context, is giving out medication or advice.

  • The pharmacist was busy dispensing medication to the patients.
  • The doctor is very careful when dispensing advice to her patients.
distributing

Common in contexts where items or resources are being given out to multiple people or locations.

  • Volunteers are distributing food to the homeless.
  • The company is distributing the new product to all its stores.
administering

Used in a context where someone is officially managing or applying something, such as medications, treatments, or responsibilities.

  • The nurse was responsible for administering the vaccines.
  • The principal is administering the new policies efficiently.
issuing

Typically refers to formally giving out something official or important, like documents, warnings, or statements.

  • The government is issuing new passports this month.
  • The school is issuing a warning to all parents about the recent incidents.

Examples of usage

  • The pharmacist is responsible for dispensing the correct medication to patients.
  • After receiving the prescription, the pharmacy technician begins dispensing the medication.
  • The process of dispensing medication includes checking for any drug interactions.
  • The dispensing of medication must be done with precision to ensure patient safety.
  • Dispensing errors can have serious consequences for patients.
Context #2 | Noun

vending machine

Dispensing can also refer to the action of giving out items from a vending machine, such as snacks or drinks, after payment is made.

Synonyms

releasing, vending.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dispensing

Same as above since it's a duplicate entry.

  • The pharmacist is responsible for dispensing medicines accurately.
  • The machine is dispensing hand sanitizer for the customers.
releasing

This word is generally used when something is being let go or set free, such as information, chemicals, or a person from obligations.

  • The company will be releasing the new software update next week.
  • The factory was fined for releasing harmful chemicals into the river.
vending

This term is specifically used in relation to selling items through a vending machine.

  • The vending machine sells snacks and drinks.
  • Vending items like sandwiches and coffee has become common in offices.

Examples of usage

  • The vending machine is equipped with a mechanism for dispensing snacks.
  • Customers can easily access beverages from the vending machine through dispensing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Healthcare

  • In pharmacies, dispensing refers to the preparation and delivery of medication to patients.
  • Pharmacists play a crucial role in dispensing, ensuring correct dosages and advising on medication use.
  • Digital technologies are now enhancing how medications are dispensed, including automatic dispensing systems.

Education

  • In classrooms, teachers dispense knowledge and information, illustrating the act of sharing ideas.
  • Educational institutions may dispense grades or awards, providing recognition for student achievements.
  • Dispensing can also refer to providing resources, such as books or supplies, to enhance learning.

Technology

  • Software programs often dispense updates automatically to improve functionality and security.
  • In robotics, machines can be programmed to dispense materials or products on assembly lines.
  • Online services frequently dispense information or content based on user preferences through algorithms.

Psychology

  • The act of dispensing help or advice can significantly impact emotional well-being and support structures.
  • Sharing resources and knowledge among peers is essential in community psychology for growth and resilience.
  • Dispensation of empathy is vital for healthy relationships, showing support by giving understanding and care.

Origin of 'dispensing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dispensare', which means to distribute or allocate.
  • It has roots in the Old French word 'dispensier', emphasizing the act of giving out.
  • In historical texts, the term was often used in contexts of managing resources or money.

The word 'dispensing' originates from the Latin word 'dispensare', meaning 'to distribute'. It has been used in English since the 15th century, initially in the context of distributing goods or administering medication. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various forms of giving out items, including the dispensing of medications and goods from vending machines.

See also: dispensable, dispensation, dispenser, indispensable.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,686, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.