Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Praecipe \Pr[ae]c"i*pe\, n. [L., imperative of praecipere to
   give rules or precepts. See {Precept}.] (Law)
   (a) A writ commanding something to be done, or requiring a
       reason for neglecting it.
   (b) A paper containing the particulars of a writ, lodged in
       the office out of which the writ is to be issued.
       --Wharton.