For forms of government let fools contest: Whate'er
is best administered is best. --Pope.
2. To dispense; to serve out; to supply; execute; as, to
administer relief, to administer the sacrament.
[Let zephyrs] administer their tepid, genial airs.
--Philips.
Justice was administered with an exactness and
purity not before known. --Macaulay.
3. To apply, as medicine or a remedy; to give, as a dose or
something beneficial or suitable. Extended to a blow, a
reproof, etc.
A noxious drug had been administered to him.
--Macaulay.
Swear . . . to keep the oath that we administer.
--Shak.
5. (Law) To settle, as the estate of one who dies without a
will, or whose will fails of an executor.
Syn: To manage; conduct; minister; supply; dispense; give
out; distribute; furnish.
A fountain . . . administers to the pleasure as well
as the plenty of the place. --Spectator.
2. (Law) To perform the office of administrator; to act
officially; as, A administers upon the estate of B.