prescribe

American  

[pri-skrahyb] / prɪˈskraɪb /

verb (used with object)

prescribed, prescribing

1. to lay down, in writing or otherwise, as a rule or a course of action to be followed; appoint, ordain, or enjoin.

   Synonyms:

   decree, dictate, direct

2. Medicine/Medical. to designate or order the use of (a medicine, remedy, treatment, etc.).

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verb (used without object)

prescribed, prescribing

1. to lay down rules; direct; dictate.

2. Medicine/Medical. to designate remedies, treatment, etc., to be used.

3. Law. to claim a right or title by virtue of long use and enjoyment; make a prescriptive claim. (usually followed by for orto ).

prescribe British  

/ prɪˈskraɪb /

verb

1. to lay down as a rule or directive

2. law to claim or acquire (a right, title, etc) by prescription

3. law to make or become invalid or unenforceable by lapse of time

4. med to recommend or order the use of (a drug or other remedy)

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Other Word Forms

• misprescribe verb
• nonprescriber noun
• overprescribe verb
• prescribable adjective
• prescriber noun
• represcribe verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of prescribe

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English from Latin praescrībere “to direct in writing,” literally, “to write before or above,” equivalent to prae- pre- + scrībere “to write”; scribe ¹, prescription

Example Sentences

McLelland, who founded the National Association of Player Welfare Officers, said she believed "mandated areas of responsibility and a prescribed modus operandi should be put in place in each and every club".

From BBC

"My GP at university kept telling me it was just eczema – and kept prescribing me more steroid cream. Something didn't feel right."

From BBC

He later explained he had suffered a reaction to medications prescribed in the wake of four back surgeries, including a spinal fusion.

From BBC

She says the man she knew before he was prescribed the drug would have been "horrified" by his behaviour.

From BBC

My brother really needs to be in a nursing home to receive the prescribed intensive rehabilitative services.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• define
• determine
• dictate
• establish
• impose
• lay down
• require
• specify