distribute

Definition of distributenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb distribute differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of distribute are deal, dispense, divide, and dole out. While all these words mean "to give out, usually in shares, to each member of a group," distribute implies an apportioning by separation of something into parts, units, or amounts.

distributed food to the needy

When can deal be used instead of distribute?

While the synonyms deal and distribute are close in meaning, deal emphasizes the allotment of something piece by piece.

deal out equipment and supplies

In what contexts can dispense take the place of distribute?

The synonyms dispense and distribute are sometimes interchangeable, but dispense suggests the giving of a carefully weighed or measured portion to each of a group according to due or need.

dispensed wisdom to the students

When is divide a more appropriate choice than distribute?

In some situations, the words divide and distribute are roughly equivalent. However, divide stresses the separation of a whole into parts and implies that the parts are equal.

three charitable groups divided the proceeds

When could dole out be used to replace distribute?

While in some cases nearly identical to distribute, dole out implies a carefully measured portion of something that is often in short supply.

doled out what little food there was

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of distribute The Social Security Administration (SSA) distributes payments on a staggered schedule throughout each month rather than sending them all at once. Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026 By combining ultrashort laser pulses with electron beams, the researchers were able to directly visualize how light interacts with metallic nanoframes and how the resulting electromagnetic fields are distributed and change over time. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 30 Mar. 2026 Independent podcasters have long relied on a patchwork of services to upload and distribute content on audio platforms and monetize their fans’ loyalty. Max Tani, semafor.com, 30 Mar. 2026 The confectionery, which is manufactured by Swiss firm Nestle, was stolen when the vehicle was distributing the bars along a route running from a factory in central Italy to Poland, KitKat said in a statement. Jack Guy, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for distribute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distribute
Verb
  • The fire is classified as accidental.
    Pioneer Press, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
  • By classifying sports betting as a public health issue and imposing rigid federal standards, the proposal also significantly limits the autonomy of the states, which have been primarily responsible for the legalization and regulation of this sector since 2018.
    Cláudia Nunes, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • For the past decade, the Rock Hall has allotted one spot on the shortlist for a capital-H hip-hop artist.
    Devon Ivie, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2026
  • In the case of Ivey, the front office should be allotted some grace.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The device will do the rest by dispensing the dyes in the right proportions in a bowl.
    Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 31 Mar. 2026
  • During one recent stop at the ArtPrize event, Zelenak said more than 3,000 acts of kindness were dispensed before the machine ran out.
    Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 31 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • He’s tied for 10th in the NBA in blocks, owns the sixth-best individual defensive rating and ranks fifth in net rating, trailing a select group that includes Victor Wembanyama and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
    Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Back in the day, only high ranking officers could ascend the staircase.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The judge assigned to Amin’s case was Iman Afshari, known in Tehran for his tough sentences—a reputation that led the European Union to place him on a blacklist, in January, for human-rights abuses.
    Cora Engelbrecht, New Yorker, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Griffis analyzed 34 removal cases assigned to him.
    Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The challenge is that manure is already extremely nutrient-dense—often providing far more nitrogen and phosphorus than even a productive garden requires.
    Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 4 Apr. 2026
  • The district spokesperson said Friday that as part of its contingency planning, LAUSD is preparing to provide take-home instructional materials and access to online learning, along with devices and internet connectivity where needed.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 4 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Published in 2021 by a team of scholars in such fields as Jewish studies and Holocaust history, it was created to help distinguish hatred of Jews from criticism of Israel.
    Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Cook also said Idaho State Police does not have a test that is able to distinguish between synthetic and natural-leaf kratom.
    Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 30 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • According to Allison, in last year’s budget the district allocated nearly $1 million for the HVAC system.
    Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Ticket holders who have bought tickets in previous phases will also be able to see the seats that have been allocated to them via their FIFA account from 1 April.
    Irene Wright, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Distribute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distribute. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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