prescribe

Alternative formsEdit

• præscribe (archaic)

EtymologyEdit

From Latin praescribere, from prae (“before”) and scribere (“to write”).

PronunciationEdit

• (UK) IPA^(key): /pɹəˈskɹaɪb/, /ˈpɹɪiˌskɹaɪb/
• Rhymes: -aɪb

Usage notesEdit

• The pronunciation with the stressed first syllable is normally used only when added distinction from proscribe is required.

VerbEdit

prescribe (third-person singular simple present prescribes, present participle prescribing, simple past and past participle prescribed)

1. To order (a drug or medical device) for use by a particular patient.

   The doctor prescribed aspirin.

2. To specify as a required procedure or ritual; to lay down authoritatively as a guide, direction, or rule of action.
   • Shakespeare

     Prescribe not us our duties.

   • Dryden

     Let streams prescribe their fountains where to run.

Related termsEdit

TranslationsEdit

See alsoEdit

• proscribe

VerbEdit

prescribe

1. Informal second-person singular (tú) affirmative imperative form of prescribir.
2. Formal second-person singular (usted) present indicative form of prescribir.
3. Third-person singular (él, ella, also used with usted^?) present indicative form of prescribir.