prescribe

[pri-skrahyb]

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

/ 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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of prescribe¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of prescribe¹

C16: from Latin praescrībere to write previously, from prae before + scrībere to write

Example Sentences

Communicating with rescuers, Hey gave a careful account of Montgomery’s condition, including the prescribed medications he had been without since losing his pack.

From Los Angeles Times

Meanwhile, prescribed burns can cover a lot of ground and, if they burn hot enough, can destroy invasive seeds.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s like prescribing medication with a co-pay that is too high for a patient to refill.”

From Los Angeles Times

She was advised to try and lose weight first, sent for eye screening and was later prescribed four tablets of Metformin a day - the maximum dose.

From BBC

Consultants eventually referred the grandfather for palliative care, firstly at home - where he was prescribed heavy dosages of morphine by the local health centre - and then at Borders General Hospital from 15 May 2023.

From BBC

Related Words

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