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

• 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

History’s lesson is that waiting until a moment of crisis has passed to begin planning for what comes next is a recipe for failure. —Oona A. Hathaway, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025

Depending on the severity of the case, constipation can cause bloating, discomfort, and even all-out pain—not exactly a recipe for a fun time. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 24 June 2025

Eat more beans and lentils: Beans and lentils are packed with protein and can be added to breakfast, lunch, and dinner recipes. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 23 June 2025

This recipe produces a nice, tall slice of pie that’s sweet and creamy and filled with Creamsicle's nostalgic and classic orange and vanilla flavors. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 22 June 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