PRESCRIBE

verb (~d; prescribing) see: scribe Date: 15th century intransitive verb to lay down a rule ; dictate , to claim a title to something by right of prescription, to write or give medical prescriptions, to become by prescription invalid or unenforceable, transitive verb 1. to lay down as a guide, direction, or rule of action ; ordain , to specify with authority, to designate or order the use of as a remedy , ~r noun