prescription: n. 1 the act or an instance of prescribing. 2 a a doctor's (usu. written) instruction for the composition and use of a medicine. b a medicine prescribed. 3 (in full positive prescription) uninterrupted use or possession from time immemorial or for the period fixed by law as giving a title or right. 4 a an ancient custom viewed as authoritative. b a claim founded on long use. ønegative prescription the time limit within which an action or claim can be raised. [ME f. OF f. L praescriptio -onis (as PRESCRIBE)]
