prescribe

[ pri-skrahyb ]
/ prɪˈskraɪb /

verb (used with object), pre·scribed, pre·scrib·ing.

to lay down, in writing or otherwise, as a rule or a course of action to be followed; appoint, ordain, or enjoin.
Medicine/Medical. to designate or order the use of (a medicine, remedy, treatment, etc.).

verb (used without object), pre·scribed, pre·scrib·ing.

to lay down rules; direct; dictate.
Medicine/Medical. to designate remedies, treatment, etc., to be used.
Law. to claim a right or title by virtue of long use and enjoyment; make a prescriptive claim. (usually followed by for or to).

Origin of prescribe

1425–75; late Middle English < Latin praescrībere to direct in writing, literally, to write before or above, equivalent to prae- pre- + scrībere to write; see scribe1, prescription

SYNONYMS FOR prescribe

1 direct, dictate, decree.

OTHER WORDS FROM prescribe

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH prescribe

prescribe proscribe

Words nearby prescribe

prescientific, prescind, prescore, prescott, prescreen, prescribe, prescript, prescriptible, prescription, prescriptive, prescriptive grammar

British Dictionary definitions for overprescribe

prescribe
/ (prɪˈskraɪb) /

verb

to lay down as a rule or directive
law to claim or acquire (a right, title, etc) by prescription
law to make or become invalid or unenforceable by lapse of time
med to recommend or order the use of (a drug or other remedy)

Derived forms of prescribe

prescriber, noun

Word Origin for prescribe

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

Medical definitions for overprescribe (1 of 2)

overprescribe
[ ō′vər-prĭ-skrīb′ ]

v.

To prescribe medication excessively.

Medical definitions for overprescribe (2 of 2)

prescribe
[ prĭ-skrīb′ ]

v.

To give directions, either orally or in writing, for the preparation and administration of a remedy to be used in the treatment of a disease.