prescribe

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To order (a drug or medical device) for use by a particular patient (under licensed authority).

   The doctor prescribed aspirin.

2. 2
   verb

   To specify by writing as a required procedure or ritual; to lay down authoritatively as a guide, direction, or rule of action.

   The property meets the criteria prescribed by the regulations.

3. 3
   verb

   To develop or assert a right; to make a claim (by prescription).

   Most probable that one presentation and 40 years possession thereafter, is sufficient to prescribe a right of patronage.

4. 4
   verb

   issue commands or orders for

5. 5
   verb

   To become invalidated or unenforceable by prescription, to lapse

Etymology

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *per- Proto-Indo-European *preh₂-der. Proto-Italic *prai Proto-Italic *prai- Latin prae- Proto-Indo-European *(s)ker-? Proto-Indo-European *(s)kreybʰ- Proto-Indo-European *(s)kréybʰeti Proto-Italic *skreiβō Latin scrībō Latin praescrībōbor. English prescribe Borrowed from Latin praescrībere, from prae- (“before, in front”) and scrībere (“to write”).