Administer Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of ADMINISTER

1

[+ object]

:

to manage the operation of (something, such as a company or government) or the use of (something, such as property)

• As a cost-saving measure, voters have elected to have the two towns administered jointly.
• The UN personnel are there to help administer the territory.
• She's been hired to administer the fund.

2

[+ object]

:

to provide or apply (something, such as justice)

:

to put (something) into effect

• administer justice [=give fair rewards and punishments in legal disputes and for crimes]
• administer punishment

3

[+ object]

:

to give or present (something) officially or as part of a ceremony

• The assistant will administer the test.
• administer an oath
• a priest to administer the sacraments

4

[+ object]

:

to give (a drug, medicine, or treatment) to someone

• The doctor will administer the anesthesia before the surgery begins.
• The drug is administered by injection.

5

[no object]

:

to give needed help or care to others

— + to

• administer [=(more commonly) _minister_] to an ailing friend
• administer to the needs of the poor