dispensary

noun

dis·​pen·​sa·​ry di-ˈspen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce dispensary (audio)
plural dispensaries
: a place where medicine or medical or dental treatment is dispensed

Examples of dispensary in a Sentence

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.
Industry leaders warn the change could lead to layoffs and further strain dispensaries already struggling with low prices and oversupply. Elissa Robinson, Freep.com, 9 Oct. 2025 The ban does not impact the sale of marijuana in dispensaries. Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer, 8 Oct. 2025 The 24% wholesale tax will apply when marijuana is sold from growers and processors to retail dispensaries. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025 Letizia says his dispensary in Menomonee Falls supports regulating hemp, including requiring testing products and setting a statewide age restriction. Gina Lee Castro, jsonline.com, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dispensary

Word History

First Known Use

1699, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dispensary was in 1699

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dispensary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dispensary. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

dispensary

noun
dis·​pen·​sa·​ry dis-ˈpen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce dispensary (audio)
plural dispensaries
: a place where medical or dental aid is given

Medical Definition

dispensary

noun
dis·​pen·​sa·​ry dis-ˈpen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce dispensary (audio)
plural dispensaries
: a place where medicine or medical or dental treatment is dispensed

More from Merriam-Webster on dispensary

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