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It is not only important, but, in a degree necessary, that the people of this country, should have an American Dictionary of the English language; for, although the body of the language is the same as in England, and it is desirable to perpetuate that sameness, yet some differences must exist. Language is the expression of ideas; and if the people of one country cannot preserve an identity of ideas, they cannot retain an identity of language. |
DISPENSE, v.t. dispens. [L., to weigh, primarily to move; and perhaps the original idea of expending was to weigh off, or to distribute by weight.]
DISPENSE, n. Dispens.
To deal out in portions] to distribute; to
give; as, the steward dispenses provisions according
directions; Nature dispenses her bounties; to dispense
medicines.
He is delighted to dispense a share of it to all the company. Sir W. Scott. To apply, as laws to particular cases; to
administer; to execute; to manage; to direct.
While you dispense the laws, and guide the state. Dryden. To pay for; to atone for.
[Obs.]
His sin was dispensed To exempt; to excuse; to absolve; -- with
from.
It was resolved that all members of the House who held commissions, should be dispensed from parliamentary attendance. Macaulay. He appeared to think himself born to be supported by others, and dispensed from all necessity of providing for himself. Johnson. To compensate; to make up; to make amends.
[Obs.]
One loving hour To give dispensation.
He [the pope] can also dispense in all matters of ecclesiastical law. Addis *** Arnold (Cath. Dict. ) To dispense with. Dispensation; exemption.
[Obs.] Expense; profusion; outlay.
[Obs.]
It was a vault built for great dispense. Spenser. | ||||||||