— administrant /ad min"euh streuhnt/ , n.
/ad min"euh steuhr/ , v.t.
1. to manage (affairs, a government, etc.); have executive charge of: to administer the law.
2. to bring into use or operation: to administer justice; to administer last rites.
3. to make application of; give: to administer medicine.
4. to supervise the formal taking of (an oath or the like).
5. Law. to manage or dispose of, as a decedent's estate by an executor or administrator or a trust estate by a trustee.
v.i.
6. to contribute assistance; bring aid or supplies (usually fol. by to ): to administer to the poor.
7. to perform the duties of an administrator: She administers quite effectively.
[ 1325-75; administrare to assist, carry out, manage the affairs of (see AD-, MINISTER); r. ME amynistre (with A- 5 ) aministrer ]
Syn. 1. conduct, control, execute; direct, superintend, supervise, oversee. See rule. 2. distribute, supply, furnish.