Definition of: prescribe

(pri·skrīb′) v. ·scribed, ·scrib·ing v.t.
1. To set down as a direction or rule to be followed; ordain; enjoin.
2. Med. To order the use of (a medicine, treatment, etc.) as a remedy.
3. Law To render invalid by lapse of time.
—v.i.
4. To lay down laws or rules; give directions.
5. Law a To assert a title to something on the basis of prescription: with for or to. b To become invalid or unenforceable by lapse of time. See synonyms under DICTATE, SET. [<L praescribere write beforehand <prae- before + scribere write]
—pre·scrib′er noun