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

But simply hoping things will bounce back is a recipe for disaster. — Chris Adams, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

It’s known for being extra creamy (almost like a custard) thanks to its yolks-only recipe and gets its memorable name from Blue Willow china, a beloved plate pattern in the South. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 23 July 2026

Pasteurized eggs may be an option for any recipe that requires raw or undercooked eggs. — Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 23 July 2026

Nearly every spirit from Matchbook follows a similar philosophy, beginning not with a recipe but with an ingredient. — Molly Fergus, Travel + Leisure, 23 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