prescription

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 possession2: the process of making claim to something by long use and enjoyment3: the action of laying down authoritative rules or directions4 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 use6: something prescribed as a rule

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