administer definition

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

Synonyms: To manage, conduct, minister, supply, dispense, give out, distribute, furnish.

Origin: OE. Aministren, OF. Aministrer, F. Administer, fr. L. Administrare; ad + ministrare to serve. See Minister.