vi to influence by long use.
2. prescribe ·vi to give directions; to dictate.
3. prescribe ·vt to direct, as a remedy to be used by a patient; as, the doctor prescribed quinine.
4. prescribe ·vi to write or to give medical directions; to indicate remedies; as, to prescribe for a patient in a fever.
5. prescribe ·vi to claim by prescription; to claim a title to a thing on the ground of immemorial use and enjoyment, that is, by a custom having the force of law.
6. prescribe ·vt to lay down authoritatively as a guide, direction, or rule of action; to impose as a peremptory order; to dictate; to appoint; to direct.