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)
Origin: OE. Aministren, OF. Aministrer, F. Administer, fr. L. Administrare; ad + ministrare to serve. See Minister.
(01 Mar 1998)
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