administerv. t.[OE. aministren, OF. aministrer, F. administer, fr. L. administrare; ad + ministrare to serve. See Minister.]1. To manage or conduct, as public affairs; to direct or superintend the execution, application, or conduct of; as, to administer the government or the state.()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.)4. To tender, as an oath.()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.()()v. i.1. To contribute; to bring aid or supplies; to conduce; to minister.()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.()n. Administrator.(Bacon.)