recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈre-sə-(ˌ)pē 

1

: prescription sense 4a

2

: a set of instructions for making something from various ingredients

3

: a formula or procedure for doing or attaining something

a recipe for success

Synonyms of recipe

• method
• approach
• strategy
• methodology
• technique
• way

Examples of recipe in a Sentence

The recipe calls for fresh thyme.

I didn't read the recipe carefully.

This is one of my grandmother's recipes.

Recent Examples on the Web

From garlic cheddar butter biscuits and classic tomato pie to chicken scallop and nostalgic banana pudding, these recipes are perfect for your next family meal. — ABC News, 9 July 2026

The recipe for making Roman concrete was believed to have been lost in ancient history. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 July 2026

This month, the Bake Club welcomes its first ever guest recipe developer, Test Kitchen Editor Rebecca Firkser, to discuss her recipe for the oh-so-cute Tiny Tomato Galettes. — Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 July 2026

Her new teammates could expect to get a taste of her family’s recipe sooner than later. — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 9 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, take, imperative of recipere to take, receive — more at receive

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing recipe

• recipe book
• recipe for disaster

Rhymes for recipe

• praecipe

Kids Definition

recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈres-ə-(ˌ)pē 

1

: prescription sense 2a

2

: a set of instructions for making something (as a food dish) from various things

a recipe for beef stew

3

: method of proceeding

a recipe for success

Medical Definition

recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈres-ə-(ˌ)pē 

: prescription sense 1