formula

for•mu•la

[[t]ˈfɔr myə lə[/t]] n. pl. -las, -lae [[t]-ˌli[/t]]

1) a set form of words, as for stating something authoritatively, for indicating procedure to be followed, or for prescribed use on some ceremonial occasion

2) any fixed or conventional method or approach:

popular novels produced by formula[/ex]

3) math.

a) a mathematical rule or principle, frequently expressed in algebraic symbols

b) such a symbolic expression

4) chem. an expression of the constituents of a compound by symbols and figures:

IIO is the molecular formula for water[/ex]

5) pha a recipe or prescription

6) nut a special nutritive mixture, esp. of milk or milk substitute with other ingredients, in prescribed proportions for feeding a baby

7) rel a formal statement of religious doctrine

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Etymology: 1575–85; < L: register, form, rule