/fawr"myeuh leuh/ , n. , pl. formulas, formulae /-lee'/ .
1. a set form of words, as for stating or declaring something definitely or authoritatively, for indicating procedure to be followed, or for prescribed use on some ceremonial occasion.
2. any fixed or conventional method for doing something: His mystery stories were written according to a popular formula.
3. Math.
a. a rule or principle, frequently expressed in algebraic symbols.
b. such a symbolic expression.
4. Chem. an expression of the constituents of a compound by symbols and figures. Cf. empirical formula, molecular formula, structural formula .
5. a recipe or prescription: a new formula for currant wine.
6. a special nutritive mixture, esp. of milk, sugar, and water, in prescribed proportions for feeding a baby.
7. a formal statement of religious doctrine.
8. ( cap. ) a set of specifications as to weight, engine displacement, fuel capacity, etc., for defining a class of racing cars (usually followed by a limiting numerical designation): Some races are open to Formula One cars.
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