prescribe

pre·scribe

verb \pri-ˈskrīb\

pre·scribedpre·scrib·ing

Definition of PRESCRIBE

intransitive verb

1

: to lay down a rule : dictate

2

[Middle English, from Medieval Latin praescribere, from Latin, to write at the beginning] : to claim a title to something by right of prescription

3

: to write or give medical prescriptions

4

: to become by prescription invalid or unenforceable

transitive verb

1

a : to lay down as a guide, direction, or rule of action : ordain b : to specify with authority

2

: to designate or order the use of as a remedy <prescribed a painkiller> <a prescribed burn to restore natural forest conditions>

— pre·scrib·er noun

Examples of PRESCRIBE

1. This drug should not be prescribed to children.
2. a drug commonly prescribed to treat rashes
3. The doctor prescribed three months of physical therapy for my leg injury.
4. The law prescribes a prison sentence of at least five years for the crime.
5. The regulations prescribe that all employees must pass a physical examination.
6. We must follow the rules as prescribed by the government.

Origin of PRESCRIBE

Middle English, from Latin praescribere to write at the beginning, dictate, order, from prae- + scribere to write — more at scribe

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to PRESCRIBE

Synonyms: define, lay down, specify

Related Words: decree, dictate, ordain; assign, direct, fix, set, settle; arrange, order; choose, select; adjure, bid, charge, command, enjoin, instruct, tell; conduct, control, govern, lead, manage; coerce, compel, constrain, force; obligate, oblige, require

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Rhymes with PRESCRIBE

ascribe, conscribe, describe, imbibe, inscribe, proscribe, subscribe, transcribe