prescribe
UK: prɪˈskraɪb | US: prɪˈskraɪb
vt. to officially advise or order the use of a medicine or treatment
vt. to lay down rules or directions authoritatively
vi. to claim or assert a right or title (archaic)
The word "prescribe" originates from Latin praescribere, combining prae- (before) and scribere (to write). Historically, it referred to writing rules or orders in advance, such as medical instructions or legal decrees. Over time, it specialized in medical contexts (e.g., doctors "writing before" a treatment plan) while retaining its broader sense of authoritative direction.
The doctor will prescribe antibiotics for the infection.
Laws prescribe strict penalties for such offenses.
Ancient texts prescribe rituals for harvest festivals.
The manual prescribes safety measures for equipment use.
He tried to prescribe his authority over the dispute.