recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈre-sə-(ˌ)pē 

1

: prescription sense 4a

2

: a set of instructions for making something from various ingredients

3

: a formula or procedure for doing or attaining something

a recipe for success

Synonyms

• approach
• fashion
• form
• how
• manner
• method
• methodology
• strategy
• style
• system
• tack
• tactics
• technique
• way

Examples of recipe in a Sentence

The recipe calls for fresh thyme.

I didn't read the recipe carefully.

This is one of my grandmother's recipes.

Recent Examples on the Web

The pizza is Neapolitan-style, while the pasta dishes focus on regional recipes made with artisanal pasta. —Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 19 May 2025

In Ali Slagle’s recipe, rendered chicken skin makes crispy chicken thighs and the ideal fat for sautéing the peas and pickled chiles. —Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2025

That’s one of the best things about this breakfast casserole recipe! —Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 18 May 2025

Get Ina Garten's lemon bar recipe What Makes These Lemon Bars Special? —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, take, imperative of recipere to take, receive — more at receive

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing recipe

• recipe book
• recipe for disaster

Kids Definition

recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈres-ə-(ˌ)pē 

1

: prescription sense 2a

2

: a set of instructions for making something (as a food dish) from various things

a recipe for beef stew

3

: method of proceeding

a recipe for success

Medical Definition

recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈres-ə-(ˌ)pē 

: prescription sense 1