/ ˈfɔːmjələ; NAmE ˈfɔ:rm-/ noun ( pl. for·mu·las or, especially in scientific use, for·mu·lae / -liː; NAmE /)
1.
[ C ] ( mathematics ) a series of letters, numbers or symbols that represent a rule or law :
This formula is used to calculate the area of a circle.
2.
[ C ] ( chemistry ) letters and symbols that show the parts of a chemical compound , etc. :
CO is the formula for carbon monoxide.
3.
[ C ] formula (for sth / for doing sth) a particular method of doing or achieving sth :
They're trying to work out a peace formula acceptable to both sides in the dispute.
There's no magic formula for a perfect marriage.
4.
[ C ] a list of the things that sth is made from, giving the amount of each substance to use :
the secret formula for the blending of the whisky
5.
(also ˈformula milk ) [ U , C ] ( especially NAmE ) a type of liquid food for babies, given instead of breast milk
6.
Formula One, Two, Three etc. [ U ] a class of racing car, based on engine size, etc. :
Formula One racing
7.
[ C ] a fixed form of words used in a particular situation :
legal formulae
The minister keeps coming out with the same tired formulas.
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WORD ORIGIN
early 17th cent. (in the sense fixed form of words ): from Latin , diminutive of forma shape, mould.