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

That isn't usually a recipe for success going up against him. —Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Nov. 2025

There are Amazon Prime deals on a Toshiba microwave, a cast iron Dutch oven for hearty winter recipes, and a handheld immersion blender that’s a must for creamy soups and sauces. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 22 Nov. 2025

The building block to so many recipes, chicken broth is an important pantry staple. —Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 22 Nov. 2025

New York — Abigail Wendling, 23, uses Pinterest to curate everything in her life, from recipes to wallpapers. —Ramishah Maruf, CNN Money, 22 Nov. 2025

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

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