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Definition of formulate

formulate

/ˈfɔːr.mjə.leɪt/
for · mu · late
Adjective:formulative
•
Past Simple:formulated
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Past Participle:formulated
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Present Participle:formulating
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formulate Lexical Profile

formulate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To create, devise, or develop methodically (such as a strategy, policy, or scientific theory).

Example

"The research team spent several months analyzing the data to formulate a viable hypothesis."

2

To express an idea, thought, or proposal in a concise, systematic, or exact way.

Example

"She paused for a moment to formulate her response to the committee's challenging question."

3

To prepare or manufacture a substance, mixture, or pharmaceutical product according to a specific formula.

Example

"The dermatologist helped formulate a gentle moisturizer specifically for sensitive skin."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for formulate

• Nearby Words

formula
formulaic
formulaically
formulate
formulation
fornicate
fornication

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century from the noun 'formula', which derives from the Latin 'formula' (a diminutive of 'forma', meaning 'form, mold, or rule'), combined with the verb-forming suffix '-ate'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Formulate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/formulate
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