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

This alternative flour has a nutty, earthy flavor and works well in savory recipes and protein-rich baked goods. —Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 12 June 2025

This recipe for bublanina (also known as bubbles cake) is just that. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 June 2025

The best hummingbird food recipe can be made at home, says Crumley. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 12 June 2025

Featuring thin, wide ribbons of raw carrots seasoned with green onions, garlic, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and hot chili peppers, the salad has been hailed as an anti-aging recipe for a few summers now. —Irene Coltrinari, Vogue, 12 June 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