prescription

pre·scrip·tion

noun \pri-ˈskrip-shən\

Definition of PRESCRIPTION

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

Examples of PRESCRIPTION

1. The drug is only sold with a prescription.
2. I have to pick up my prescription.

Origin of PRESCRIPTION

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

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PRESCRIPTION

Synonyms: convention, custom, heritage, tradition, rubric, rule

Related Words: ethic, form, mode, mores, norm, principles, standards, values; birthright, inheritance, legacy; folklore, lore, superstition; culture, lifestyle

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Rhymes with PRESCRIPTION

ascription, conniption, conscription, decryption, description, Egyptian, encryption, inscription, proscription, subscription, transcription