Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Prescribe \Pre*scribe"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Prescribed}; p. pr
   & vb. n. {Prescribing}.] [L. praescribere, praescriptum; prae
   before + scriebe to write. See {Scribe}.]
   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.