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.).

---

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)

---

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

In his conclusion, Leon writes that with White House approval from Congress, "the American people will benefit from the branches of Government exercising their constitutionally prescribed roles."

From BBC

Preston Council said the event did not "prescribe the type of egg to be rolled and visitors have the choice as to what they roll down the hill".

From BBC

The guidelines prescribe LDL goals based on scan scores.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Labor Department said plan sponsors who follow prescribed processes would have a safe harbor that aims to protect against lawsuits.

From The Wall Street Journal

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

Related Words

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