Definition of dispensation
1a : a general state or ordering of things; specifically : a system of revealed (see 1reveal 1) commands and promises regulating human affairs a privilege maintained under the new dispensationb : 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 ruleb : a formal authorization requested a dispensation to form another lodge
3a : the act of dispensing the dispensation of medicationb : 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 of dispensation from the Web
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Yellow band wearers might be responsible for the timely dispensation of alcohol negating measures, such as periodically running through the crowds with fattening snacks, high protein, low carby goodness.
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.
Origin and Etymology of dispensation
see dispense
First Known Use: 14th century
DISPENSATION Defined for English Language Learners
dispensation
playDefinition of dispensation for English Language Learners
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: permission to break a law or an official promise you have made : release from a rule, vow, or oath
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: an act of providing something to people
Medical Dictionary
dispensation
playMedical Definition of dispensation
: the act of dispensing the dispensation of medicines
Learn More about dispensation
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See words that rhyme with dispensation Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for dispensation Spanish Central: Translation of dispensation Nglish: Translation of dispensation for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dispensation
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