Pre·scribe v. t. [imp. & p. p. Prescribed p. pr & vb. n. Prescribing.]
  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.
     Prescribe not us our duties.   --Shak.
     Let streams prescribe their fountains where to run.   --Dryden.
  2. Med. To direct, as a remedy to be used by a patient; as, the doctor prescribed quinine.
  Syn: -- To appoint; order; command; dictate; ordain; institute; establish.
  prescribed
       adj 1: set down as a rule or guide
       2: fixed or established especially by order or command; "at the
          time appointed (or the appointed time") [syn: appointed,
           decreed, ordained]
       3: conforming to set usage, procedure, or discipline; "in
          prescribed order" [syn: official]
       4: formally laid down or imposed; "positive laws" [syn: positive]