formula

¹for·mu·la

noun \ˈfȯr-myə-lə\

plural for·mu·las or for·mu·lae\-ˌlē, -ˌlī\

Definition of FORMULA

1

a : a set form of words for use in a ceremony or ritual b : a conventionalized statement intended to express some fundamental truth or principle especially as a basis for negotiation or action

2

a (1) : recipe (2) : prescription b : a milk mixture or substitute for feeding an infant

3

a : a general fact, rule, or principle expressed in usually mathematical symbols b : a symbolic expression of the chemical composition or constitution of a substance c : a group of symbols (as letters and numbers) associated to express facts or data (as the number and kinds of teeth in the jaw) concisely d : a combination of signs in a logical calculus

4

: a customary or set form or method allowing little room for originality

— for·mu·la·ic \ˌfȯr-myə-ˈlā-ik\ adjective

— for·mu·la·ical·ly \-ˈlā-ə-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Examples of FORMULA

1. His investment strategy is based on a simple formula.
2. This has proven to be a winning formula.
3. The product is made using a secret formula that the company refuses to reveal.
4. The formula for water is H2O.
5. infants drinking formula instead of their mother's milk

Origin of FORMULA

Latin, diminutive of forma form

First Known Use: 1618