administer: Meaning and Definition of

ad•min•is•ter

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. to manage or dispose of, as a decedent's estate by an executor or administrator or a trust estate by a trustee.

1. to contribute assistance; bring aid or supplies (usually fol. by to): to administer to the poor.
2. to perform the duties of an administrator: She administers quite effectively.