recipe

noun

rec·​i·​pe ˈre-sə-(ˌ)pē How to pronounce recipe (audio)
Synonyms of recipe
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 of recipe

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Today’s recipe (Bill Addison / Los Angeles Times) From the age of the Aztecs to the present, chocolate has served as an integral part of Mexican cuisine. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026 Orlando was always within reach, sharing recipes and starting conversations about food systems. — Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Oct. 2026 Sacramento food vlogger Jerry James Stone secured a $440,000 grant to launch a 13-episode food literacy TV show focused on seasonal produce and low-friction recipes. — Sacbee.com, 24 Oct. 2026 Each recipe also has a wine pairing suggestion by Selengut’s wife and sommelier, April Pogue. — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for recipe

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of recipe was in 1533

Phrases Containing recipe

Rhymes for recipe

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Browse Nearby Words

recip
recipe
recipe book
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Cite this Entry

“Recipe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recipe. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

recipe

noun
rec·​i·​pe ˈres-ə-(ˌ)pē How to pronounce recipe (audio)
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

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