1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.44 [gcide]:

Administer \Ad*min"is*ter\, verb (used with an object) [imp. & p. p. {Administered}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Administering}.] [OE. aministren, OF. aministrer, F. administer, fr. L. administrare; ad + ministrare to serve. See {Minister}.]

1. To manage or conduct, as public affairs; to direct or superintend the execution, application, or conduct of; as, to administer the government or the state.

For forms of government let fools contest: Whate'er is best administered is best. --Pope.

2. To dispense; to serve out; to supply; execute; as, to administer relief, to administer the sacrament.

[Let zephyrs] administer their tepid, genial airs. --Philips.

Justice was administered with an exactness and purity not before known. --Macaulay.

3. To apply, as medicine or a remedy; to give, as a dose or something beneficial or suitable. Extended to a blow, a reproof, etc.

A noxious drug had been administered to him. --Macaulay.

4. To tender, as an oath.

Swear . . . to keep the oath that we administer. --Shak.

5. (Law) To settle, as the estate of one who dies without a will, or whose will fails of an executor.

Syn: To manage; conduct; minister; supply; dispense; give out; distribute; furnish.
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