pre·scribe [ pri skrb ](past and past participlepre·scribed, present participlepre·scrib·ing, 3rd person present singularpre·scribes)
verb
Definition:
1. transitive and intransitive verb order use of medication: to order a course of treatment for a patient, usually the use of a particular drug at set times and dosages Most doctors are wary of prescribing antibiotics for relatively minor infections.
2. transitive verb recommend remedy: to recommend a particular course of action or treatment as a remedy for something I prescribe lots of tender loving care.
3. transitive verb lay down rule: to say with authority that a course of action should be taken the penalties prescribed by law
4. intransitive verb set down regulations: to lay down rules or laws
5. transitive and intransitive verb law claim property right: to claim a right to something on the grounds of possession over a long period of time
[15th century. < Latin praescribere "write before" < scribere "write"]
