dispenser

noun

dis·​pens·​er di-ˈspen(t)-sər 

: 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

Hamster cages are made of a range of materials and may have additional features like hamster wheels and water dispensers. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

Even small upgrades like matching soap dispensers and toothbrush holders help the space feel more organized. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2026

Automatic Ice Makers and Water Dispensers In some cases, features that seem convenient can actually reduce a home's efficiency, such as automatic ice makers and water or drink dispensers built directly into the fridge. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Apr. 2026

According to a settlement website, Whirlpool reached an agreement regarding certain side-by-side refrigerators with in-door ice makers, ice dispensers and water dispensers manufactured from 2018 to 2021. —Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

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

Phrases Containing dispenser

• cash dispenser

Rhymes for dispenser

• condenser
• extensor
• biosensor
• censer
• censor
• denser
• fencer
• sensor
• tensor

Kids Definition

dispenser

noun

dis·​pens·​er dis-ˈpen(t)-sər 

: one that dispenses

especially : a container that gives out something a little at a time

a soap dispenser