administer
ad-MIN-ih-ster
/ədˈmɪnɪstər/
To manage and be responsible for the running of (a business, organization, etc.) or to dispense or apply (a remedy or sacrament).
In a medical context, it means to give or apply medicine, treatment, or aid. It implies a formal or authorized act.
The story behind the word. The word 'administer' comes from the Latin 'ad-' (meaning 'to' or 'toward') and 'ministrare' (meaning 'to serve' or 'to attend'). So, it literally means 'to serve to' or 'to attend to.' It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to managing affairs or governing. By the 16th century, it acquired the specific medical sense of applying or dispensing remedies, reflecting the idea of 'serving' a patient's needs.
Word relationships
- dispense: Dispense means to distribute or give out, often in portions; administer implies a more formal or controlled application, especially of medicine or aid.
- manage: Manage is a broader term for controlling or organizing; administer specifically refers to carrying out duties or applying rules/treatments.
- withhold: Withhold means to refuse to give or keep back, the opposite of administering.
- neglect: Neglect implies a failure to provide care or attention, contrasting with the active role of administering treatment.
Word family
- administration (noun): The management of public affairs or a business; the act of administering.
- administrative (adjective): Relating to the running of a business, organization, etc.
- administrator (noun): A person responsible for running a business, organization, etc.
Collocations
- administer medication
- administer first aid
- administer justice
- administer an oath
Example sentences
- "The nurse was trained to administer CPR and other life-saving first aid." Describing medical treatment.
- "The new manager was tasked to administer the department's budget and resources efficiently." Referring to management.
- "The judge will administer the oath to the witnesses before they testify." In a legal context.
Memory hook
To 'AD-MINISTER' is to 'ADD' a 'MINI-STER' (small amount) of medicine, or to be a 'MINISTER' (one who serves) in a formal capacity. Serve or give
When not to use
Do not use for casual giving or handing over. It implies a more formal, responsible, or official act of dispensing.
Fun facts
- The word 'minister' (as in a government official or religious leader) shares the same Latin root, emphasizing a role of service.
- In medical settings, 'administering' medication requires precision and adherence to protocols.
Related words
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