dispenser
UK: dɪˈspɛnsə | US: dɪˈspɛnsər
n. a machine or container that automatically releases a specific amount of something (e.g., a soap dispenser).
n. a person who distributes or administers something (e.g., a dispenser of justice).
The word "dispenser" traces back to Latin dispendere ("to weigh out"), combining dis- (apart) and pendere (to weigh). The morpheme pens evolved into the idea of "measuring portions," later generalized to "distributing." The suffix -er denotes an agent (person or machine performing the action). Thus, a dispenser literally "weighs out portions apart" — logically extending to modern meanings of controlled distribution.
The soap dispenser in the restroom releases foam automatically.
Medieval alchemists acted as dispensers of rare medicines.
The vending machine is a type of food dispenser.
As a judge, she served as a dispenser of justice.
The pharmacist is a licensed dispenser of prescription drugs.