First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
prescription
noun pre·scrip·tion \pri-ˈskrip-shən\
: a written message from a doctor that officially tells someone to use a medicine, therapy, etc.
: a medicine or drug that a doctor officially tells someone to use
: something that is suggested as a way to do something or to make something happen
Full Definition of PRESCRIPTION
1
a : the establishment of a claim of title to something under common law usually by use and enjoyment for a period fixed by statute b : the right or title acquired under common law by such possession
2
: the process of making claim to something by long use and enjoyment
3
: the action of laying down authoritative rules or directions
4
a : a written direction for a therapeutic or corrective agent; specifically : one for the preparation and use of a medicine b : a prescribed medicine c : something (as a recommendation) resembling a doctor's prescription <prescriptions for economic recovery>
5
a : ancient or long continued custom b : a claim founded upon ancient custom or long continued use
6
: something prescribed as a rule
See prescription defined for English-language learners
See prescription defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PRESCRIPTION
partly from Middle English prescripcion establishment of a claim, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin praescription-, praescriptio, from Latin, act of writing at the beginning, order, limitation of subject matter, from praescribere; partly from Latin praescription-, praescriptio order
Rhymes with PRESCRIPTION
PRESCRIPTION Defined for Kids
prescription
noun pre·scrip·tion \pri-ˈskrip-shən\
Definition of PRESCRIPTION for Kids
1
: a written direction or order for the preparing and use of a medicine
2
: a medicine that is ordered by a doctor as a remedy
Medical Dictionary
prescription
noun pre·scrip·tion \pri-ˈskrip-shən\
Medical Definition of PRESCRIPTION
1
: a written direction for the preparation, compounding, and administration of a medicine
2
: a prescribed remedy
3
: a written formula for the grinding of corrective lenses for eyeglasses
4
: a written direction for the application of physical therapy measures (as directed exercise or electrotherapy) in cases of injury or disability
Learn More About PRESCRIPTION
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: prescription drugPrevious Word in the Dictionary: prescriptibleAll Words Near: prescription
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up prescription? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).