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

Tigani has invested in a high tech dispenser for preserving the wine and serving customers who order by the glass. —Charlotte Observer, 7 Apr. 2026

In addition to an ambient-temperature water from a dispenser, the astronauts can sip on fruit juices, coffee, tea, smoothies and chocolate breakfast drinks. —Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2026

The dispenser has two separate water lines leading into the crew module, allowing the rehydration of food, making drinks and maintaining crew hydration. —Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 5 Apr. 2026

The handwash sink next to the restrooms and kitchen had a malfunctioning soap dispenser. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 5 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