[pre.scribe] vb pre.scribed ; pre.scrib.ing [ME, fr. L praescribere to write at the beginning, dictate, order, fr. prae- + scribere to write--more at scribe] vi (15c) 1: to lay down a rule: dictate
2. [ME, fr. ML praescribere, fr. L, to write at the beginning]: to claim a title to something by right of prescription
3: to write or give medical prescriptions
4: to become by prescription invalid or unenforceable ~ vt 1 a: to lay down as a guide, direction, or rule of action: ordain b: to specify with authority
2: to designate or order the use of as a remedy -- pre.scrib.er n