formulary

noun

for·​mu·​lary ˈfȯr-myə-ˌler-ē 

plural formularies

1

: a collection of prescribed forms (such as oaths or prayers)

2

: formula sense 1

3

: a book listing medicinal substances and formulas

formulary adjective

Examples of formulary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The coverage change made by CVS Caremark in July applies to the most common formulary template, which represents between 25 million and 30 million individuals overall. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025

But any change in price to any formulary could rapidly change what’s available. —Joanna Allhands, AZCentral.com, 12 Aug. 2025

And check what drugs the plan covers (called the formulary) to see if yours are included, as well as its network of providers, to see whether your doctors are in it. —Elisabeth Rosenthal, Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2025

PBMs decide which medicines are included on insurers' formularies, or lists of covered drugs. —Sally Pipes, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1541, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for formulary

• accessary
• adversary
• ancillary
• arbitrary
• aviary
• axillary
• beriberi
• breviary
• budgetary
• capillary
• catenary
• cautionary

Medical Definition

formulary

noun

for·​mu·​lary ˈfȯr-myə-ˌler-ē 

plural formularies

1

: a book containing a list of medicinal substances and formulas see national formulary

2

: an official list of generic and brand name pharmaceutical drugs designated by a health insurance provider as approved for coverage under the provider's pharmacy plan benefits