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Definitions

administer

[ad-min-uh-ster] / ædˈmɪn ə stər /
VERB
manage an organization or effort
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administrate carry out conduct direct execute govern oversee supervise
STRONG
boss control head render run superintend
WEAK
be in the driver's seat be in the saddle crack the whip head up hold the reins pull the strings pull the wires ride herd on run the show sit on top of
Antonyms
STRONGEST
leave neglect obey
STRONG
follow
WEAK
deny forego frustrate mismanage refuse withhold
VERB
dispense something needed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
apply authorize deliver disburse distribute execute extend give impose perform provide regulate serve
STRONG
apportion bring contribute deal furnish inflict issue offer portion proffer supply tender
WEAK
dole out measure out mete out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fail hoard hold keep maintain refrain retain take withhold
STRONG
deny refuse shun take back withdraw
WEAK
forego frustrate mismanage neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A spokesperson said applications are also slowed by “1980s technology” it uses to administer benefits.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

Desperate to help his sick dog, one Australian man went down the ultimate ChatGPT research hole, using artificial intelligence to design a personalised experimental treatment and finding top scientists to administer it.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

With his older brother John, he ran a school, having left a previous teaching post from a disinclination to administer corporal punishment.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Mr Indyke's lawyer said that the executors "never acted to put their own interests above their duties as co-executors. They continue to administer the Estate... in full accordance with applicable law".

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

It had been willed to an heir who was too young to administer it.

From "Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad" by Ann Petry

Vocabulary lists containing administer

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

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The Perks of Being a Wallflower

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Marbury v. Madison (1803)

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!