The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Dispense \Dis*pense"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Dispensed; p. pr. &
   vb. n. Dispensing.] [F. dispenser, L. dispensare, intens.
   of dispendere. See Dispend.]
   1. To deal out in portions; to distribute; to give; as, the
      steward dispenses provisions according directions; Nature
      dispenses her bounties; to dispense medicines.
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            He is delighted to dispense a share of it to all the
            company.                              --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.
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   2. To apply, as laws to particular cases; to administer; to
      execute; to manage; to direct.
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            While you dispense the laws, and guide the state.
                                                  --Dryden.
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   3. To pay for; to atone for. [Obs.]
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            His sin was dispensed
            With gold, whereof it was compensed.  --Gower.
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   4. To exempt; to excuse; to absolve; -- with from.
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            It was resolved that all members of the House who
            held commissions, should be dispensed from
            parliamentary attendance.             --Macaulay.
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            He appeared to think himself born to be supported by
            others, and dispensed from all necessity of
            providing for himself.                --Johnson.
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