dispenser

noun

dis·​pens·​er di-ˈspen(t)-sər How to pronounce dispenser (audio)
: one that dispenses: such as
a
: a container that extrudes, sprays, or feeds out in convenient units
a soap dispenser
b
: a usually mechanical device for vending merchandise

Examples of dispenser in a Sentence

hospitals and other health-care dispensers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While there’s no kitchen, the more rustic Coach House did have some impressive modern conveniences, including an automatic water dispenser for filling water bottles. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Oct. 2026 The paper towel dispensers were empty at both hand sinks in the kitchen prep room. — Sacbee.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Beyond the inside of tubes and pipes, chalky, crusty alkaline deposits often form around the base of faucets, the outer rims of refrigerator water dispensers, and on the bottom of tea kettles. — Emily Farris, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Oct. 2026 Sauce in dispenser containers on the prep lines lacked date mark labels. — Arkansas Online, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dispenser

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "person in charge of distribution or administration, steward," borrowed from Anglo-French despenser, from despenser "to dispense, administer" + -er -er entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dispenser was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing dispenser

Rhymes for dispenser

See All Rhymes for dispenser

Browse Nearby Words

dispense
dispenser
dispense with
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Cite this Entry

“Dispenser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dispenser. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

dispenser

noun
dis·​pens·​er dis-ˈpen(t)-sər How to pronounce dispenser (audio)
: one that dispenses
especially : a container that gives out something a little at a time
a soap dispenser
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