Main Entry: pre·scrip·tion

Pronunciation: \pri-ˈskrip-shən\

Function: noun

Etymology: partly from Middle English prescripcion establishment of a claim, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin praescription-, praescriptio, from Latin, act of writing at the beginning, order, limitation of subject matter, from praescribere; partly from Latin praescription-, praescriptio order

Date: 14th century

1 a : the establishment of a claim of title to something under common law usually by use and enjoyment for a period fixed by statute b : the right or title acquired under common law by such possession
2 : the process of making claim to something by long use and enjoyment
3 : the action of laying down authoritative rules or directions
4 a : a written direction for a therapeutic or corrective agent; specifically : one for the preparation and use of a medicine b : a prescribed medicine c : something (as a recommendation) resembling a doctor's prescription <prescriptions for economic recovery>
5 a : ancient or long continued custom b : a claim founded upon ancient custom or long continued use
6 : something prescribed as a rule