dispenser
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a machine or container that gives you a set amount of something when you press a button or pull a handle.
a device or container that releases a specific, often measured, quantity of a substance or item for use.
Simple“The soap dispenser in the bathroom was empty, so I had to use the bar of soap instead.”
In context“The facility manager installed automatic hand sanitiser dispensers at every entrance to improve hygiene standards throughout the office building.”
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
a person who gives out things, like medicine or information, as part of their job.
a person who distributes or administers something, such as a pharmacist dispensing medication or an official providing information.
Simple“As a dispenser of justice, the judge had to remain completely neutral during the trial.”
In context“In many rural clinics, the primary dispenser of medical advice is a senior nurse rather than a resident physician.”
Synonyms
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.