dispense
UK: dɪˈspɛns | US: dɪˈspɛns
vt. to distribute or provide (something) to others
vt. to administer (justice, advice, etc.) formally or systematically
vi. (with "with") to do without or manage without something
The word "dispense" originates from Latin dispendere ("to weigh out"), combining dis- (apart) and pendere (to weigh). Historically, it referred to measuring out portions (e.g., money or goods) by weight. Over time, it broadened to mean "distribute" or "administer," reflecting the logical progression from physical weighing to abstract allocation (e.g., justice or advice). The phrase "dispense with" emerged later, implying the removal ("weighing away") of something unnecessary.
The charity dispenses food to homeless people weekly.
Judges must dispense justice impartially.
Modern technology allows us to dispense with paper records.
The machine dispenses exact amounts of medication.
She dispensed valuable advice to her students.