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

Failing to take prescribed medication remains a serious issue worldwide.

From Science Daily

Both antivirals can also be prescribed if you’ve been exposed to the flu and want to take it prophylactically.

From The Wall Street Journal

For instance, the report said employees were trained to diagnose atrial fibrillation when patients were on certain medications without checking whether they were prescribed for the condition.

From The Wall Street Journal

While X-rays are sometimes necessary, the vet says, the signs of osteoarthritis - the thickening of joints, for instance - could be obvious to an experienced vet, who might prefer to prescribe a less expensive anti-inflammatory treatment.

From BBC

They would be worn for limited, prescribed periods during and following chemotherapy to provide compression to blood vessels.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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