dispensation

noun

dis·pen·sa·tion | \ ˌdis-pən-ˈsā-shən

, -ˌpen-\

Definition of dispensation

1a : a general state or ordering of things specifically : a system of revealed (see reveal entry 1 sense 1) commands and promises regulating human affairs a privilege maintained under the new dispensation

b : a particular arrangement or provision especially of providence or nature involving special dispensation by the Church

2a : an exemption from a law or from an impediment, vow, or oath may be granted a dispensation from the rule

b : a formal authorization requested a dispensation to form another lodge

3a : the act of dispensing the dispensation of medication

b : something dispensed or distributed … one of the most remarkable cultural dispensations in the country's history, the paperback book.— T. E. Cooney

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Examples of dispensation in a Sentence

The priest asked for dispensation from his vows. The state gave the town a special dispensation, allowing it to ignore the law in this case.

Recent Examples on the Web

The relationship of essayist to reader has long been that of equal to equal, adult to adult, no condescension exercised, no special dispensations asked. — Joseph Epstein, WSJ, "‘Essayism’ Review: Tell Me a Bit (Less) About Yourself," 30 Nov. 2018 The measure excuses anyone caring for a young child or going to school, among other dispensations. — The Editorial Board, WSJ, "Making America Work Again," 3 Aug. 2018 The decision, in a unanimous vote here Sunday, came after two failed drug tests by Russian athletes — among nearly 170 competing here under a special dispensation — and after a long night of talks among senior I.O.C. officials. — Tariq Panja, New York Times, "Russians Won’t Get to March Behind Their Flag at the Olympic Closing Ceremony," 24 Feb. 2018 States can waive the time limit with an Agriculture Department dispensation. — The Editorial Board, WSJ, "The Food Stamp Farce," 22 Aug. 2018 In the case of the Republicans, there was a lot of drama, and some Never Trump people ended up leaving the party, but most Republican leaders stayed around and made their peace with the new dispensation. — Jeet Heer, The New Republic, "The Democratic Party is on an identity quest.," 6 July 2018 Polk got special dispensation from Amazon to use the Echo’s industrial design. — Dieter Bohn, The Verge, "Polk Command Bar review: As seen near TV," 3 July 2018 It is understood that the stadium build is making good progress, however deadlines are tight - which has led to Spurs receiving this special dispensation for their first few home games. — SI.com, "Tottenham to Start 2018/19 Season at Wembley Amid Fears That New Stadium Will Not Be Ready in Time," 13 June 2018 The winners in this new dispensation feel their privilege has been earned, rendering them self-satisfied and unresponsive. — Jennifer Szalai, New York Times, "The Cry of the Centrist: In ‘Tailspin,’ Steven Brill Bemoans a Polarized America," 5 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'dispensation.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.