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Definition of prescribe

prescribe

/prɪˈskraɪb/
pre · scribe
Adverb:prescriptively
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Adjective:prescriptive
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Past Simple:prescribed
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Past Participle:prescribed
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Present Participle:prescribing
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prescribe Lexical Profile

prescribe Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To advise and authorize the use of a medicine or medical treatment for someone, especially in writing.

Example

"The physician decided to prescribe a mild antibiotic to clear up the sinus infection."

2

To state authoritatively or lay down as a rule, law, or course of action that should be carried out.

Example

"State regulations strictly prescribe the safety protocols that must be followed in chemical laboratories."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for prescribe
Antonyms
View all antonyms for prescribe

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'prescribe' (to authorize or recommend a treatment or rule) with 'proscribe' (to forbid, ban, or condemn something by law or authority).

• Rhymes for prescribe

• Nearby Words

preschooler
prescreen
prescribable
prescribe
prescriber
prescription
prescriptive

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Latin 'praescribere', meaning 'to write beforehand, direct, or ordain', formed from 'prae-' (before) and 'scribere' (to write).

Cite this Entry

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