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Prescribe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prescribe

[prษชหˆskraษชb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

medical

To recommend and authorize the use of a particular medicine or treatment for someone's medical condition.

Synonyms

advise, authorize, order, recommend.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor prescribed antibiotics for the infection.
  • The psychiatrist prescribed therapy sessions for the patient.
  • The dentist prescribed painkillers after the extraction.
Context #2 | Verb

general

To lay down a rule or direction.

Synonyms

dictate, enjoin, mandate, specify.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher prescribed strict guidelines for the project.
  • The company prescribed a dress code for employees.
  • The law prescribed penalties for violations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'prescribe'

The word 'prescribe' originated from the Latin word 'praescribere', which means 'to write before'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Initially used in legal contexts, it later expanded to include medical and general usage.

See also: ascribe, circumscribed, inscribed, scribble, scribe, scribes, scribing, scrivener, subscribe, subscriber, subscription, transcribe.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,714 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.