Word
dispenser
Phoneticsdis·penser
US/dɪˈspɛnsɝ/
UK/dɪspˈɛnsɐ/
Definitions
01a machine or container
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a machine or container that gives you a set amount of something when you press a button or pull a handle.
n. a device or container that releases a specific, often measured, quantity of a substance or item for use.
“The soap dispenser in the bathroom was empty, so I had to use the bar of soap instead.”
“The facility manager installed automatic hand sanitiser dispensers at every entrance to improve hygiene standards throughout the office building.”
Synonyms
02a person who distributes
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Formal
n. a person who gives out things, like medicine or information, as part of their job.
n. a person who distributes or administers something, such as a pharmacist dispensing medication or an official providing information.
“As a dispenser of justice, the judge had to remain completely neutral during the trial.”
“In many rural clinics, the primary dispenser of medical advice is a senior nurse rather than a resident physician.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“There’s even a removable syrup dispenser for sweeter treats.” Etymology
From Anglo-Norman dispensour, from Old French despenseor, from Latin dispensator. By surface analysis, dispense + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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