Prescribe (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Prescribed (?); p. pr & vb. n. Prescribing.] [L. praescribere, praescriptum; prae before + scriebe to write. See Scribe.]
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1. To lay down authoritatively as a guide, direction, or rule of action; to impose as a peremptory order; to dictate; to appoint; to direct.
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Prescribe not us our duties. Shak.
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Let streams prescribe their fountains where to run. Dryden.
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2. (Med.) To direct, as a remedy to be used by a patient; as, the doctor prescribed quinine.
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Syn. -- To appoint; order; command; dictate; ordain; institute; establish.
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