dispensary
UK[dɪˈspensəri]US[dɪˈspensəri]
n
A place where medicines are prepared and given out, especially in a hospital or clinic.
n
A public institution where medical advice and medicines are provided free or at a low cost.
Morpheme Breakdown
dispens
ary
dispens
e
ary
Etymology
The word 'dispensary' originates from the Medieval Latin 'dispensarium', a derivative of the Latin verb 'dispensare', meaning to weigh out or distribute. This verb itself is a frequentative form of 'dispendere' (to weigh out), composed of 'dis-' (apart) and 'pendere' (to weigh). The core concept of carefully measuring and portioning out, particularly money or goods, evolved specifically into the distribution of medicine. The suffix '-ary', denoting a place associated with a specific function, was attached, solidifying the modern meaning as a place where medical provisions are prepared and distributed.
Analysis
Structure: dispens(e) + ary
dispens(e) (Latin: to weigh out, distribute) + ary (Latin suffix via French: a place connected with)
Examples
She volunteered at the free dispensary in the city center.
The hospital's dispensary is open 24 hours a day.
In the 19th century, charitable dispensaries provided vital care for the poor.